Confidence. Some people have it, some don't… WRONG!

Confidence can be learned. In fact the more you understand where confidence comes from, the easier it is to create.

Start with your expectations. If you think that confident people behave that way because they are always secure… WRONG AGAIN!

Confidence develops from preparation. An athlete spends hours on learning plays, an actor rehearses lines over and over, sales people practice their presentation in front of a mirror. Would you rate athletes, sales people and actors high on a confidence scale? Probably… but instead of relying on "natural" abilities, these people work hard getting ready to perform.

The same principles apply if you want to develop more confidence… practice. Whatever the task, nothing will create more confidence than preparation. A presentation in front of your class, asking for a date, or simply projecting a strong image, all can be accomplished with the right amount of preparation.

How do you practice?

• Write it down
• Re-write, edit, make improvements
• Role play with a friend
• Practice out loud, record your words if possible

How much time should you spend? Spend enough time for you! Take more than you need. JUST DO IT!

Now you are ready for the MOST IMPORTANT part:

Athletes lose, actors bomb, and sales people don't close all deals! Failure is a normal part of their lives. You will make mistakes, suffer embarrassment, and put your foot in your mouth.

Expect some bumps and bruises.

People are judged in life by what they get right. Remember Thomas Edison and the light bulb story? Have you ever watched an episode of "Before They Were Stars"?

Mistakes, rejection and embarrassment at times may be painful, but provide valuable information necessary to get something right! Expect to fail some of the time. Learn from it.