Is there a way we can train our brains to be more confident? What impact does confidence have on our brains?As individuals, we must trust our instinct and decision-making capabilities at various stages in life. People who doubt or second guess themselves may struggle with confidence.
In this article we look at how the brain functions when it comes to confidence.
Can we train our brains to be more confident?
Our brain is a complex organism that is made up of specialised cells called neurons, it’s the function of these neurons to communicate with each other via synapses, which is the connections between them. As human beings, we are creating and manipulating these synaptic connections all the time.
When we learn a new skill or a piece of knowledge our brains store that information for a time when it is needed later. Therefore we can use it to train ourselves to be more confident – this will come with practice and repetition, but it can be done.
How does the brain react to confidence?
Have you heard the expression ‘positive things happen to positive thinkers? Well, this is true. When we think positively or feel confident, we activate the striatum and prefrontal cortex of the brain.
The feeling we get from these areas feels good and it can be contagious to those people around us. Therefore people in positions of authority or responsibility often come across as confident.
Does positivity breed confidence?
The brain develops differently in all of us from children through to adults and it is reliant on getting the right nutrients, sleep, and as much stimulation as possible.
We need to be aware of how personality traits and life experiences affect us. The brain is like a sponge and will soak up these experiences which in turn adjusts the brain’s way of working. Thinking positively might not instantly make you a more confident person, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Stick to a pattern
Your brain will respond well to continuous repetition which is why repeating patterns are such a powerful tool for boosting confidence. It teaches us to be self-aware and highlight situations and scenarios where we need to react positively, whether that is for a job interview or passing a test.
If we find a pattern of behaviour that works for our confidence, then it is important that we reinforce it via the synaptic patterns of activity. When it comes to brain functionality there is some debate as to the myth between the male and female brain.
It has been suggested that men use the left side of their brain for verbal reasoning while women use both areas for verbal, visual and emotional responses. These differences can often affect behaviour when it comes to confidence and self-esteem.
Work with me
I am incredibly passionate about coaching for public speaking, and I strive to help others develop their skills and grow their confidence in life.
If you would like to know more about me or how I can help you, your child, your team, or your leaders develop the life skills of communicating with confidence, the art of storytelling, presentation, and interview skills get in touch today – together we can create a clear path to building confidence.
