3 tips to boost your confidence - TED-Ed

Summary

This script explores the concept of confidence as a blend of self-esteem, optimism, and courageous action. It delves into the origins of confidence, influenced by genetics, social treatment, and personal choices. Practical tips for boosting short-term confidence and fostering a long-term growth mindset are offered, emphasizing the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity. The narrative encourages viewers to face challenges with a positive outlook, knowing that each attempt, regardless of outcome, enriches their understanding and abilities.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Confidence is a combination of self-esteem, optimism, and courageous action in the face of challenges.
• 🧬 Confidence has roots in genetic factors, affecting the brain's neurochemical balance.
• 🌐 Environmental social pressures significantly influence an individual's level of confidence.
• 🛠 Personal choices, including risk-taking and responses to challenges, are crucial in building confidence.
• 🚀 Quick confidence boosters include visualizing success, listening to empowering music, and adopting powerful poses.
• 🌱 A growth mindset, believing in the improvability of abilities, fosters resilience and learning from setbacks.
• 🧠 Neuroscience supports the idea that brain connections strengthen with study and practice, aligning with a growth mindset.
• 📚 People with a growth mindset tend to be more successful academically and in overcoming challenges.
• 💪 Embracing failure as a part of the learning process helps in developing constructive responses to setbacks.
• 🛫 Notable figures like J.K. Rowling and the Wright Brothers overcame significant failures on their paths to success.
• 🌟 Confidence is not just about the outcome but the journey of gaining knowledge and understanding through challenges.

Q & A

What is the definition of confidence as described in the script?

Confidence is the combination of self-esteem, the belief that one is valuable and capable, and the optimism that comes from being certain of one's abilities, which then empowers one to act courageously to face challenges.

What are the three factors mentioned in the script that impact confidence?

The three factors are: 1) what you're born with, such as your genes, 2) how you're treated, including social pressures, and 3) the choices you make, the risks you take, and how you respond to challenges and setbacks.

How does the script suggest we can cultivate our own confidence?

The script suggests cultivating confidence through practical tips such as using quick fixes for immediate boosts, believing in one's ability to improve, and practicing failure to learn and grow from setbacks.

What are some quick fixes mentioned in the script to boost confidence in the short term?

Quick fixes include picturing success, listening to music with deep bass to promote feelings of power, striking a powerful pose, and giving oneself a pep talk.

Why is it important to believe in the ability to improve according to the script?

Believing in the ability to improve is important because it fosters a growth mindset, which influences how one acts when faced with setbacks, turning challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.

How does the script relate the growth mindset to success and brain function?

The script states that neuroscience supports the growth mindset, as the connections in the brain get stronger and grow with study and practice. People with a growth mindset tend to be more successful, get better grades, and perform better in the face of challenges.