A Critical Analysis of Confidence

Confidence is a multi-faceted concept. It comes in a variety of forms and functions, but one universal truth which it possesses is that it is difficult to attain. Confidence can be both overt and implicit, extravagant and subdued, and innovative and intuitive. It is bred in us through both our environment and surroundings and the perceptions of the world and our identity which we construct as we mature.

Affirmation in the form of confidence can be viewed in both a positive and negative light depending on both the filter and recipient of your self-assurance. It is a widely held belief that confidence is a favourable concept when used to boost one’s self esteem and cement one’s status or social standing in an entrepreneurial or edifying fashion. However, it can be perceived negatively when the confidence is projected as overly conceitful or condescending. There is a distinct paradox present in the realm of confidence which suggests that to be overly inflated with oneself or to have too superior of a self-image, is undesirable, but on the other hand having just the right amount of confidence to seem receptive and relaxed is venerated.

In my experience, confidence has been a struggle, because of the unattainable expectations that society seems to have in correlation with the degree and demonstration level of a confident demeanour and disposition. I have always striven to rise to my potential and be aligned with a confident mindset, but it has certainly been difficult with the contradictions and societal constructs imposed on us and inherent in the sociological principles which encapsulate confidence on a global scale/level.

I think that confidence is a lifelong process and something which cannot be determined by the measures set in place by solipsistic and self-sabotaging industries. Everyone comes from a different avenue of education and formative learning experiences, and the way in which those are applied to constructing and projecting confidence is varied and dynamic. In short, it is extremely challenging to be a confident individual in this day and age with all the contradictory messages which we are bombarded with, but it is possible to find a balance with time and patience.

Confidence is crucial, because it enables us to gain critical insights and to build a shield against the perils ingrained in our society. It is portrayed in both negative and positive lights, but part of evolving as a human involves finding your own unique version of confidence and transcending the judgements which people will inevitably make about you. Confidence is beautiful, bold, and brilliant and can be built with determination and rigorous revelations. By continuing to follow your dreams and to believe in your potential, confidence can be reached by anyone.