Being more confident at work is the key to cultivating a successful career.
MANILA, Philippines – I was introduced to the concept of confidence as early as 11 years old, when my grade 5 teacher asked me to perform Jules Feiffer’s I lost my bear in front of the whole school. Even though I’ve already memorized the story by heart and my costume was on point, I still felt scared. I have danced and sang in front of my relatives before but I wasn’t vulnerable back then.
Maybe that’s the reason why most of us still struggle with confidence now that we’re older and have our own jobs – we’re not comfortable with vulnerability. It’s tricky because confidence is built on choices and accomplishments that make us feel fulfilled, happy, and proud of who we are. But while it’s hard, being confident is important because it will make us achieve more and therefore be successful at work.
Here are reasons why:
You’ll be assertive
Did someone offend you at work? Instead of sulking at your desk – which drains your productivity – why not approach the person to resolve the issue? No, you’re not being arrogant, you just believe that what you’re doing is right and you’re just there to provide solutions to problems.
You’ll not be afraid of changes
When you’re confident you’ll face any sudden changes head on and with the right mindset. You don’t automatically assume that things will fail. Your department just hired a new boss? Assigned to a big project? You’ll be excited and therefore be able to come up with ideas that will not only keep things running but also improve it.
You’ll still perform well even when under stress
When tasks keep on piling up and deadlines seem to be impossible to meet, it’s normal to feel stressed. It’s inevitable at work. Acknowledging that it’s a normal part of any career brings you one step ahead of others who shut down at the slightest stressful situation.
You’ll be able to communicate more effectively
If your job entails coordination and dealing with a lot of people, being able to communicate effectively is crucial to your success. When you’re confident, you’re more relaxed in social settings and meeting new people. This allows you to focus on getting the message across and avoid miscommunication.
You’ll constantly aim for bigger roles
For fresh graduates, being given the chance to play a bigger role right away sounds intimidating. You’re thinking, no need to rush, right? I can just stay where I’m at first and see where it’ll go. But if you’re confident, you’ll constantly aim for bigger roles and in turn, learn better which will get you to your life goals faster.
Being confident is a long journey that requires a lot of work. Even celebrities like Asia’s Next Top Model 2017, Maureen Wroblewitz, feels this, too. She, along with other Filipinas shared their own #GandangWalangHiya stories, a campaign by Myra. #GandangWalangHiya aims to inspire women to be comfortable in their own skin and start owning the possibilities that life can bring once they start being confident.
No matter the career industry you’re in, it’s important to look and feel confident. Step out of your comfort zone and start reaching for your dreams. – Rappler.com
Myra believes that the importance of confidence can’t be overemphasized. Try their beauty vitamins, body care and face care available at your nearest drug stores and supermarkets. To read Maureen and other Filipinas’ #GandangWalangHiya stories, visit Myra’s website.
ASC Reference Code U099I020420M
Article originally published here.