I recently gave a talk to high school students about building unshakeable self-confidence through self-acceptance and embracing your authentic self.
Do you remember feeling envious of a classmate who aced the final exams?
Or being awestruck by someone excelling in club activities?
Perhaps scrolling through social media, seeing other seemingly dazzling high schoolers, and feeling a pang of inadequacy?
I certainly do. In fact, I felt this way constantly.
And these comparisons didn’t end with school. They continued into my professional life, where I’d often find myself criticizing my own performance while watching colleagues, seniors, and even juniors climb the corporate ladder.
I’m sure many of you can relate to the feeling of being surrounded by “amazing” people.
The truth is, this very feeling of awe towards others is the root of our lack of confidence. Is it human nature to compare ourselves to others throughout our lives?
If so, how can we learn to navigate this tendency and build a healthy relationship with ourselves?
I explored this question in my talk, using the power of kanji (Japanese characters) to illustrate the point.
For example, the kanji for “confidence” (自信 – jishin) is comprised of two parts: “person” (人) and “word” (言).
If we replace the “person” on the left with “self,” the character suggests, “What words do you say to yourself?”
How do you give yourself a pep talk?
True confidence, therefore, stems not from external validation, but from the words you tell yourself – your inner voice.
This message resonates not only with young people but with professionals at all levels.
I’d love to connect and discuss how this concept can empower your team and organization.
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