Confidence 101: Play To Win, It Works Better!

Confidence is something that surely comes in helpful in the changing times of our day.  Change is in the air.  I’ve noticed that this change is not just in politics by any means. 

I see it in science, medicine, religion, education, workplace, and the financial world – basically all of the significant institutions that impact our lives.  One key to successfully navigating change is being conscious of where you are placing you attention or focus. 

I notice that the media and many people are focusing on what is wrong or negative.  For example, far more attention is placed on the news that unemployment is  around 6% which means employment is therefore, 94%.  Why is so much bad news generated over only the 6% when 94% are still employed? 

Granted, we need to take action to correct our disastrous economic policies, but it is not necessary to attempt to create a state of fear or panic to accomplish this.  Where you put your focus REALLY matters.  The mind takes our language and thinks in pictures.  If you focus on what you “don’t want” you are creating mental pictures and corresponding feelings regardless.  The mind does not translate the word "don’t". 

For example, if I said, “Don’t think about a pink elephant” – how could you not?  In order to process what I am referring to, you have to understand pink elephant.  Likewise, if I focus on images and hear stories that cause inner feelings of alarm, I am signaling my brain’s fear centers to go into action. 

When this area of the brain is called into action, a cascade effect starts that ultimately causes the release of stress hormones into your blood stream; just what you don’t want, right?  Well, that is exactly what you will get, more stress! 

Change does not have to wreck havoc in your mind and body.  If you change your attention, especially to start focusing on a plan to create a new goal for potential positive change and opportunity, you can start to build your confidence today. 

Confidence will come with taking action in a positive expansive way for yourself.  Staying focused on fear and what is wrong with the world is only going to create more insecurity.  I read a great quote yesterday in Time magazine by our newly elected president-elect, Barack Obama in which he is quoted as saying

             “You can’t stop change; you can only usher it in and work with
              the terms.  And if you are smart, and a little lucky, you can
              make it your friend”

I agree.  If you can’t beat it, why not join?  You can become more confident and happier, too! 

Where your focus is, there your results will be also.  Most people play not to lose.  This is a trap as playing this way keeps your focus on what you don’t want.  Focus on what you want and play the game of life to win and build your confidence.  Your mind, body and Spirit will be glad you did!