Feeling Uncertain in Your Leadership Role? Perhaps these myths could be undermining your confidence?
You’ve probably heard various opinions about what confidence should look like, but these ideas can often be confusing and overly focused on being 'alpha.'
Have you ever wondered if you’re falling for these common myths? Let’s set the record straight.
Myth #1: Confidence Means Never Questioning Yourself
It’s easy to think that confident leaders never doubt their decisions. We often imagine them as people who always know exactly what to do. The truth is, real confidence isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being curious and open to learning from every situation.
Many of us believe that confidence comes from certainty, but it actually grows through reflection and continuous learning. Think back to when you first learned to drive. Remember how nervous you felt? Your confidence didn’t just appear overnight; it developed through practice and making mistakes along the way. Even after years of driving, it’s normal to encounter challenges and learn new things.
Confidence involves regularly reflecting on your experiences and allowing yourself to grow from them. When you’re willing to question your assumptions and seek feedback, you build confidence and make better decisions. This openness to learning can actually strengthen your leadership.
Myth #2: Leaders Must Always Appear Strong
Another common belief is that leaders need to project unwavering strength at all times. While maintaining composure is definitely important, pretending to be invulnerable can create a barrier between you and your team. In reality, being authentic can enhance your credibility and trustworthiness.
When you admit to facing challenges, you become more relatable, and your team sees you as genuine and approachable. It’s not about being weak; it’s about being real. Leaders who model humility often inspire others to be curious and humble, improving overall teamwork.
“Humility does not mean weakness, but its opposite... it stems from the confidence to not be arrogant.” — James Kerr, author of Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life.
So what is confidence?
It’s not about never doubting yourself or always needing to be right. It’s about being open to having your ideas challenged and having the courage to acknowledge that you don’t have all the answers. When you question your confidence, remember that self-reflection and humility are signs of strength, not weakness.