Fake It Until You Become It

We often view performance as a one-way street, don’t we? Imagine for a moment a gifted athlete who always seems to choke during a big game or a brainy student who just can’t seem to ace their tests. The usual story of underachievers goes like this: if they could just “get their head right” and adopt the magical “mental attitude,” they’d reach the top of their game. 🤔

While there’s no denying the connection between mindset and performance, it’s crucial to note this relationship isn’t just a one-way street; it’s more akin to a bustling two-way avenue. 🚦 A positive mindset can both inspire your actions and be the result of them.

The Reciprocal Dance of Mindset and Performance

Beliefs spark actions. Actions, in their turn, cultivate beliefs. 🌿

And guess what? We’re not talking about airy-fairy notions or those sugar-coated self-help mantras. There’s scientific backing for it! Amy Cuddy, a renowned Harvard researcher who delves into the realm of body language, has demonstrated in her research that simply striking confident power poses can amp up your confidence and tame those pesky anxiety gremlins.

In her research, subjects underwent genuine biological transformations in their hormone levels. They showed increased testosterone (the confidence booster) and reduced cortisol (the stress grim reaper).

But hey, this science isn’t just about the common saying “fake it until you make it.” Cuddy takes it up a notch, urging us to “fake it until you become it.” Yes, until it feels as natural as breathing.

Crafting Confidence: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s the deal: Ask yourself, “What would the kind of person I aspire to be, do?” Kind of like wearing an invisible superhero cape. 🎭✨

Let’s say you’re aiming to lead a healthier lifestyle and shed some pounds. Don’t just dream about it! Keep asking, “What would a healthy version of me do?” 🚴‍♀️

Sure, you might not feel like a fitness guru right away, but act like one, and soon enough? You’ll be well on your way!

Confidence is a beautiful thing—like sunshine on a cloudy day. But if you’re drowning in fear, self-doubt, or that devilish uncertainty, let your actions be the captain steering the ship of your beliefs.

Play as if you’re already a star player. 💪 Work like you’re the top dog in the industry. Chat with that person like you’ve got the charisma of a movie star at a red carpet event.

You can harness daring actions to shape a daring mindset—a bit like crafting your own reality!

In a nutshell, ask yourself: “What would a courageous version of me do?”