In researching confidence at work, I’ve become aware of the impact of internal psychological safety on our sense of confidence. Traditionally, we view confidence as an outward demonstration of self-assurance and self-belief, but I’m starting to believe that it is rooted in the foundations of internal psychological safety. Confidence at work is also often misunderstood as an inherent trait that some people naturally possess. However, research suggests that confidence is more nuanced and is a skill that can be developed over time.
Confidence is a skill that can be developed over time
The concept of psychological safety, introduced by Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, refers to a shared belief within a team that it's safe to take interpersonal risks. However, this idea can be powerfully applied to us as individuals as well. When we feel psychologically safe within ourselves, we create an internal environment that nurtures true confidence, enabling us to take calculated risks, voice our opinions, and perform at our best without the paralyzing fear of negative consequences.
Psychological safety within us acts as an internal buffer against self-doubt and fear of failure. It allows us to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than threats to our self-worth. This mindset shift is crucial for building lasting confidence. When we feel safe to make mistakes and learn from them, we become more resilient and adaptable, which in turn boosts our confidence in our ability to handle future challenges.
When individuals feel psychologically safe within themselves, they are more likely to take calculated risks, speak up, embrace challenges, and learn from failures. This internal sense of security fosters resilience, creativity, and authentic self-expression, all of which contribute to genuine confidence in the workplace.
Internal psychological safety also promotes self-acceptance and reduces the need for external validation. This is particularly important in the workplace, where the pressure to conform or impress others can often lead to inauthentic behavior and decreased confidence. By cultivating a strong sense of self and feeling secure in our own skin, we can develop a more stable and genuine form of confidence that is not easily shaken by external factors.
The relationship between psychological safety and confidence is also cyclical. As we feel more psychologically safe, we are more likely to take risks and express ourselves, which can lead to positive outcomes and increased confidence. This increased confidence, in turn, reinforces our sense of psychological safety, creating a delicious cycle of personal growth and empowerment.
When we feel safe, we take more risks and express ourselves freely, often leading to positive outcomes. These successes boost our confidence, which further enhances our sense of safety. This self-perpetuating loop fosters personal growth and empowerment.
Interestingly, I believe that psychological safety within us can help mitigate the negative effects of imposter syndrome, a common issue in the workplace that can severely undermine confidence. By fostering a sense of internal security and self-acceptance, we can more easily recognize our own competence and contributions, reducing feelings of fraudulence or inadequacy.
To cultivate psychological safety within yourself, consider these simple strategies. This inner security and sense of safety, nurtured through self-awareness and personal growth, has the potential to transform our professional lives in profound ways.
- Practice self-compassion and positive self-talk
- Embrace a growth mindset
- Set realistic goals and celebrate small wins
- Seek feedback and view it as an opportunity for growth
- Cultivate supportive relationships at work
- Develop a strong sense of personal values and purpose
It's important to note that while internal psychological safety is crucial, it is also influenced by external factors. A supportive work environment that values open communication, learning from mistakes, and diverse perspectives can significantly contribute to our sense of psychological safety. Therefore, organizations play a vital role in creating conditions that allow employees to develop both psychological safety and confidence.
By focusing on building psychological safety within ourselves, we can cultivate a more authentic, resilient, and sustainable form of confidence.
By focusing on building psychological safety within ourselves, we can cultivate a more authentic, resilient, and sustainable form of confidence. This approach not only benefits us in our personal and professional growth but also contributes to creating more innovative, collaborative, and productive work environments.
I'm so intrigued by the possibility of redefining and expanding our understanding of confidence in professional settings. As I continue my research, I'm eager to unravel the layers of this complex attribute and perhaps discover new dimensions that could reshape how we perceive and cultivate confidence in the workplace. Stay tuned!
