Mindset Monday - The Confidence Curve
“Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence” -Vince Lombardi
Confidence is felt. Its presence reassures us when we are trusting someone to guide us through a process, or to a destination. It makes us uncomfortable when its absence is felt. Most endeavors require confidence. Each endeavor has its own confidence curve.
What is misunderstood, is confidence is not a one size fits all and It is not a you have it or you don’t thing. It has phases that require nurturing and management.
First, confidence starts with an idea, or desire to do more, or to be more. That desire prompts you to start. You make initial progress and this momentum leads to some early wins. The first couple wins spark confidence, and it grows with each little victory along the way. Any forward progress validates our idea and nurtures your confidence.
Second, confidence is nurtured by positive reinforcement. Someone thanks you for your effort, or congratulations you on a job well done.
Third, the little wins continue to pile up, and you receive such regular and consistent feedback that you begin to believe that there is not doubt you know exactly what you are doing.
Fourth, confidence comes from effortlessness. You have done the task so many times that it is now just a part of who you are. Its automatic. Your ability to rely on the tasks outcome allows it to become more and more effortless.
Realizing that confidence is a process, and has phases makes it less vulnerable. It give you a roadmap to get it, or get it back. You may find yourself going backward on the confidence curve as the variables of your environment change. The market changes. The client changes. The industry changes. You may find yourself back further on the curve than you think you should be. Your business may seem less effortless. You may question your skills. You might receive less positive reinforcement in volatile times. The wins may not come as often. Be mindful of how you let this impact your mindset. Confidence is not a permanent outcome. It never was. Understand that these are steps along the path. Steps can go up and down. Confidence requires self-awareness, perspective and nurturing. Take stock of where you are on the curve, and take steps to reinvent yourself at whatever phase you find yourself.
Your clients and partners need your confidence. Manage it well and put it out there. It will come back to you in the form of trust, referrals, reviews and revenue.
Written by Chris Catania
Chris Catania entered the mortgage industry in 2005. As a seasoned Branch Manager and coach at Fairway, Chris has consistently been at the forefront of providing, creative problem solving, exceptional service and tailored financial solutions. His commitment to excellence and deep understanding of the mortgage landscape have made him a trusted advisor and a leading figure in the field.
Beyond his professional achievements, Chris is a Army veteran, devoted husband and father. He is an avid outdoorsman and hunter. Chris also brings his leadership experience and skills to the community as a coach, where he mentors individuals, teaching them the values of teamwork, discipline, accountability and perseverance. Chris Catania's blend of professional acumen, family dedication, and community involvement truly sets him apart as a respected professional and valued community member.
