Self-confidence is an inner trust that is completely void of arrogance or superiority. It does not reveal itself through seeking or pretending to be something other than what one is; one can only truly express one self as they are. Self-confidence is attained when we validate to ourselves that we can, and do, align our inner knowing with our actions in the world. Self-confidence does not seek approval or recognition. Doubt prevails when we fail to act in alignment with our inner wisdom.
Recall for a moment an image of someone you have idolized. You may recollect a feeling of admiration and respect for the ease and grace that flows as one demonstrates skillful means and actualizes their dreams with confidence. If you are able to identify this trait in another, then subconsciously you are communicating with this ability within yourself. Attuning to this faculty produces an inner potential to emulate that same behavior and removes the veil of separation between our conditioned perception and our ability to realize it in action.
Connection occurs when we merge thought with action and balance our being and doing (non-action and action). This space between intuitive knowing and movement is ambiguous yet remains actively passive. Wei Wu Wei is a Taoist term that expresses the concept of “effortlessly doing”. Any action without action requires preparation for what is to come and trusting that we will know how to proceed as life presents itself. Sheer force creates disorder, while ambivalence results in stagnation. Being present, knowing one’s purpose, and listening to inner wisdom must guide each step. Being prepared, adhering to the goal, and making choices that nourish that goal, gives rise to self-confidence.
Following our sense of knowing aligns our inner visions with outer choices and creates an opportunity to act in confidence. Being present with our knowing prepares us for our next action. As we move forward in synthesized thought and action, we learn to trust in our ability and, ultimately, become able to sincerely and innately express an act of confidence.
Daily Reflections
Ask yourself. . .
What choices do I make that oppose my inner knowing?
When do I diminish my self-confidence by doubting my ability?
How can I learn to trust my inner wisdom?