Whenever I hear the phrase “Fake it ‘Till You Make It,” I have two reactions.
My analytical mind, says…riiiggght. You can’t fake knowledge or empathy or dependability. Seriously.
My other reaction is…ummmhuh. I get it. If I behave like a professional, people will treat me like one. If I show confidence, even when I am nervous, people will pay more attention to what I have to say.
With these reactions in mind, I “Googled” the saying and found this blog post by a doctoral student in experimental psychology:
Fake It ‘Til You Make It: How expectations, beliefs, and perspective can build confidence, by Alexander Spradlin
The author connects confidence to health and success and mentions a few things you can do to help build it. While I don’t completely agree with his interpretation of the placebo effect (analytical mind kicking in again), I think he is on the right track with his key points and tips. These suggestions are especially handy when you start a new program, job, presentation or experience.
Also, when you can’t seem to talk yourself into being confident about something professional, trying asking a mentor for support. Their experience can help put things in perspective, remind you how you achieved success in the past, etc.
(real) Good Luck!
