As children, we are often free-spirited, confident and willing to put ourselves out there despite insecurities, imperfections or a lack of qualifications. We are celebrated for the simple act of trying our best and encouraged to keep going even if the results aren’t exactly what we were hoping for.
But there’s an invisible point in our lives where we stop believing in ourselves this way and, we make our life experience way more complicated than it needs to be; even if it’s not obvious that we’re doing it.
Unfortunately, we are living in very uncertain and complicated times and everything that we once considered normal has changed. It’s still too early to know whether or not these changes are for the better. However, the changes have had enormous impact on organizations at every level. And, the domino effect is that the leaders and people in these organizations, no matter their position, are equally affected.
Many leaders are having to take on new roles with new responsibilities as organizations restructure. Having to learn on-the-go while at the same time continuing to be the beacon of support and direction for those that they lead. It’s easy to see where confidence can wane and how it can potentially get in the way of being the strong and effective leader it is your intention to be.
But do not despair. There are a number of things that you can do to maintain your confidence despite the challenges that compete with it.
Here are: 3 Ways to Stay Confident as a leader in times of uncertainty
1.Know your strengths and know when you need help
It’s important to know what new skills and strategies you’re going to have to learn to perform your new duties. But, you also need to know what you’re good at now and use them to build your foundation moving forward. Don’t let fears or lack of experience limit what you can do in the future. Know your strengths, weaknesses and triggers. If you have a task at hand and you know it isn’t within your scope of expertise, don’t wing it. Seek advice or collaboration so that you can learn it, do it and repeat it. Confidence is not automatic – it is a learned behavior.
2.Remain Calm
Loosing your cool is not an option. Confident leaders have the ability to listen more, talk less and ask pertinent questions. In moments of challenge, it can be very effective, not just for yourself, but for your team to lead with calmness while discussing difficult challenges. The calmer you remain, the more likely it is that those around you will conclude that you’re confident and in control. In return, their reaction will reflect on you and your ability to think strategically and creatively will be interpreted as your personal confidence in what you’re doing and what you’re talking about.
3.Do what you say you’re going to do
Confident leaders don’t sit around waiting for things to happen. They set goals and take decisive action. Keeping your word is a demonstration of how confident you are in your role, tasks or in the belief you have about your people. Integrity, trust and reliability are all traits that demonstrate your character and it speaks volumes to the people you lead in times of crisis. If you say you’re going to do something, then do it. Confidence is contagious. If you’re people sense in you that you’re confident, they’ll be more willing to take the risk and follow your leadership.
Confidence is an important reflection of your self-worth and self-esteem which is why a lack of confidence makes a person feel vulnerable. It’s hard enough to feel confident when things are going well and completely aligned with your goals and dreams. However, in uncertain times, it can feel like you’re riding a rollercoaster of ups and downs. There isn’t a magic wand cure to staying confident when there’s a million reasons circling in your head as to why you shouldn’t be. The one thing you can do, is to focus on what you do well and ask for help so you’ll have the confidence to be an effective leader and do it well.
