Your Competence Erodes the More You Coast Through Life

Before we dig deeper, let’s just establish one basic fact about the human condition: with everything else being equal, we’d rather take it easy. It doesn’t matter which part of the globe you come from or what you do for a living or what you look like, if you are like most people, you’d rather have it easy. You’d rather coast. It seems that this tendency is built into the human consciousness.

 

There’s a big problem with our very normal human tendency to coast through life: it erodes our personal competence. Bad news. Competence, just in case you are not already aware, is crucial to any kind of success in life. The bottom line is that you have to know what you are doing. You have to meet certain basic levels of competence to move on, much less succeed, with your life. 

 

Personal competence is like a muscle. Your muscles get stronger and more powerful the more you stress them out by putting pressure on them. You're not going to develop huge, well defined and toned muscles if you just eat, eat and eat. 

 

If you don't hit the weights, if you don't do push-ups, if you don't put any kind of stress on your muscles, you're not going to develop them. They're just going to get wider and wider because of the fat accumulation under your skin.

 

You have to remember that any personal trait of yours that you want to improve and take to the next level can be improved only if you challenge them. In other words, you have to use them, you have to put pressure on them, you have to challenge them. That's how it works.

 

Competence is not any different from this. It's really like a mental and emotional muscle. Unfortunately, if you have stopped challenging your personal competence, it gets softer and softer. It starts to erode. Its value goes down. It becomes irrelevant.

 

You may think that you're at the top of your game. You may think that you have a lot of people in your network. You may think that you have a lot of things figured out as far as your select body of expertise may go.

 

Unfortunately, this is all in your head because as you coast through life, the world moves on. The body of knowledge that you think you're competent in starts to change. Unless you put pressure on your competence to at least stay abreast or keep in touch with the latest developments, chances are you will find yourself left behind. Not exactly a good position to find yourself in.

 

That's how it works. It's a muscle and for that muscle to get stronger or to remain toned, you have to put pressure on it. You have to use it. You have to challenge it. 

 

Read my books for a practical approach to build self-confidence by challenging yourself strategically. By using this system, you can develop the self-confidence you need to achieve continuous and predictable victory in many areas of your life.

 

Every Challenge is Doable if You Chop It Down to Size

It's very easy to get so worried about the challenge facing you that you just freeze up and quit. It's very easy to get discouraged. It's very easy to feel that your problem is so big and so scary that there's really no way you can get out from under it. 

 

You might as well just give up. You might as well lose all hope. If any of these enter your frame of mind, you are simply just taking the path of least resistance. You're looking at the situation from the perspective of somebody who wants to do the least work.

 

If you are serious about coming out on top and achieving unstoppable victory, every challenge does not have to be scary. Every challenge does not have to have the potential of crushing you and stealing your dreams.

 

Instead, if you have the right mindset, every challenge is actually going to be an opportunity. Think about it. If you are faced with a challenge that really pushes you back against the wall and incentivizes you to step up your problem-solving skills, what do you think will happen? 

 

That's right. Your natural imagination, resourcefulness and creativity are triggered. You figure out a way. If you can't get through the front door, you will try the roof. If the roof doesn't work, you try the basement. If the basement is blocked off for whatever reason, you will try the side door. If that doesn't work, then you will try the back door.

 

If today is not an option, then you will try tomorrow. If that is off limits, then you will try the next day. In other words, you challenge yourself to become a more competent person all around by tackling every challenge you come across.

 

One of the most powerful revelations you could ever realize is that every challenge is doable if you chop it down to size. Every challenge actually has many different moving parts. If you pick these apart and you attack one piece at a time in many different sequences, chances are you will achieve a breakthrough.

 

If anything, you become a different person as you go through this problem-solving process. This is what a lot of people miss out on. They're always looking for the short cut or, worse yet, they're waiting for somebody to pull them out of their situation because they have completely given up on coming up with a solution of their own.

 

If any of this sounds familiar and you are sick and tired of being stuck where you are as far as your challenges and your self-confidence goes, click here for a practical road map for developing real self-confidence.

 

You Get Less Competent the More You Run Away from Challenges

Believe it or not, personal competence is actually like a muscle. If you haven't been to a gym before and you start lifting weights, what do you think will happen? 

 

Well, it doesn't take a brain surgeon to figure out that in the morning, you're not going to feel all that well. It seems like your muscles are aching all over the place. It's like they're screaming at you to stop working out. 

 

You put a tremendous amount of pressure on muscles that are not used to that stress and pressure. What do you think will happen? That's right, a lot of pain. The secret here is that you must work through the pain. 

 

A lot of people are under the impression that if their body is telling them that it's in pain that this is their signal to stop. This is the most common mistake rookies make. When you listen to your body, you're basically listening to that part of yourself that is telling you to take it easy. You're listening to that part of yourself that does not want to be stressed, confronted and challenged. 

 

What do you think it will ask for? That's right. It will ask for you to take it easy. It will ask you to do something else that is more pleasurable. It's going to ask you to just lay off anything that may involve discomfort, inconvenience or sacrifice.

 

But it turns out that if you want to make the pain go away, you go to the gym and lift more weights. Sure, it feels like murder the next day, but if you keep going, the pain evaporates. It turns out that the pain is temporary. It's the small price you pay to achieve higher levels of muscle discipline and strength.

 

The same applies to your competence. If you want to just focus on your current level of expertise and knowledge, you're not going to improve. You're not going to be curious about what else is out there. You're not going to challenge what you think you know. You're not going to break things apart and try to put them back together and figure out how to connect the dots and see the big patterns.

 

You're not going to achieve any of that. Those are the things that will take your knowledge to the next level. Those are the things that will enable you to become a greater expert and authority in whatever field you're in.

 

Unfortunately, a lot of people think that they can coast or take it easy based on their current level of expertise. They end up running away from challenges. They focus on the things they know. They focus on the “tried and proven.”

 

Unfortunately, the more they do this, the less competent they become because the value of their knowledge erodes over time. Also, if you don't want to challenge yourself, chances are you're not going to figure out better ways to articulate what you already know.

 

To get away from this catch 22 and position yourself for greater levels of authority and credibility, click here. Competence is built on confidence and you will get a road map that will enable you to step up your game on so many levels.

 

Competence is the True Building Block of Real Confidence

Let's get one thing clear. There are all sorts of fake types of confidence out there. After all, the whole idea of faking it until you make it is actually still popular in the United States. A lot of people are under the impression that as long as you look successful, that's all that matters. Real success will eventually catch up with you. 

 

By the same token, there are no shortage of people who believe that as long as other people buy into the idea that you know what you’re talking about then this is as good as the real thing. These are the types of people who make a big deal out of formal titles or one’s placement on any kind of organizational chart. The idea is that your role defines you. In other words, if you carry a title, your title somehow some way bestows some sort of instant competence on you.

 

Both of these ideas involve magical thinking. There are simply too many leaps of faith as well as logic required for people to accept these and for these to have actual effects. Sadly, there are so many people who believe in faking it until they make it. The line of people who believe that their titles or how others view them truly determines who they are is actually quite long.

 

Of course, as everybody knows, all this is a fallacy because there's a profound difference between looking like you know how to do things and actually being able to deliver. Sadly, we have a society that is so obsessed about self-esteem that it equates it with self-confidence which turns out to be a false type of confidence.

 

Remember, it doesn't really matter whether you think you know how to build a bridge or not. It doesn't matter if you think you're a genius or not. What matters is whether you are able to perform what society asks of you.

 

This is where the rubber meets the road. Unfortunately, a lot of people who place a lot more importance on self-confidence built on self-esteem fall apart. They just crumble like a house of cards because they have built their confidence on something that's not real.

 

Competence is the true building block of real confidence because it's tried, tested and you only develop competence when you face adversity, challenges and failure. Sure, there's a tremendous amount of discomfort and inconvenience getting to this point, but that's precisely the point.

 

It's not something that you get just for showing up. It's not just some sort of door prize. It's something that you fight for. It's something that you earn. It's something that you sacrifice for. 

 

If you want to build your self-confidence on something real, click here. You will get the inside scoop on how to develop self-confidence that will not fall or fade or disintegrate in the face of difficulties. 

 

Self-Esteem Without Competence is a Recipe for Failure

For the longest time, in the United States and elsewhere, educational policy makers bought into the idea of self-esteem. Please understand that self-esteem is a good thing. Nobody's disputing that. However, according to this educational policy philosophy, for students to perform well in life, they need to have their self-esteem built up and encouraged early on.

 

Again, just like the observation that self-esteem is a good thing, this seems pretty good on the surface. What's there to argue about. The problem is if you are going to be building your self-esteem based on affirmations and being made to feel good about who you are without any accomplishments or physical results produced by your efforts to back it up.

 

You are building your house on sand. This is precisely what happened with generations of youth fed on the steady diet of self-esteem stimulation. That's really what it is. You just stimulated the formation of self-esteem not through actual achievements, accomplishments, sacrifice, hard work and other traditional indicators of success. 

 

Instead, people got self-esteem by being respected for showing up. That's it. That's all you need to do. You just need to show up and you get a prize for participation. According to this school of thought, your feelings are paramount.

 

If only things worked that way. Sadly, a lot of people who base their self-esteem on the fact that they happened to show up know deep down inside that their confidence is hollow. They know that this is not the way real life works. They know that the world may have some rude surprises waiting for them. No wonder, many people with supreme self-esteem are very frustrated and confused.

 

As long as you're feeling okay about yourself, then there's really not much difference between what you think and what everybody else thinks. You are entitled to your estimation of yourself, the rightness of your action, so on and so forth.

 

What this created is self-esteem that produced a very hollow self-confidence. People definitely can feel that they can do stuff, but they can only do it in theory. When they're actually given challenges to produce and deliver results, most people, who focus primarily on self-esteem without the matching competence, fall apart like a house of cards.

 

Self-esteem without competence is a recipe for failure. If you're having a tough time in any area of your life or you feel you're frustrated or stuck in any area of your life, maybe it's because of this. Sure, you feel good about yourself and it seems like you have a high estimate of your ability to get things done.

 

Unfortunately, unless and until that high estimation is based on actual experience and results, you're just wasting your time. It's probably going to be very hard for you to overcome challenges. It's probably very tempting for you to just quit the moment you're confronted with actual difficulty.

 

If you're suffering from any of these, thankfully there is a fairly straightforward and simple solution. Don't be afraid to ask for help and get the support you need.

 

5 Examples of Body Language and What They Show

Learning to read body language is a skill that takes years to master. The good news is, you can start at any time, and with a few simple tips, you can start the process. Below are five examples of body language and what they mean so you can start learning to read body language. 

 

1.    Arms Crossed Across the Chest

 

Crossed arms are perhaps the most common form of body language you will come across, and most people have at least a slight indication of what it means. Standing with your arms crossed is typically interpreted as defensive or closed off to new experiences. It usually means someone doesn't want to converse with you. Be careful, however, as occasionally it can mean someone is just cold.

 

2.    Tapping Fingers on a Surface

 

Another common body language is the tapping of fingers on a surface. You probably see this while you are at work, or maybe at a coffee shop. The tapping of the fingers indicates impatience and usually means that the person is waiting for someone. Knowing this could help you strike up a conversation next time you are also waiting for something. 

 

3.    Tilting the Head to One Side

 

Have you ever been talking to someone when they suddenly start tilting their head to the side? It is a good sign, as this particular aspect of body language means the individual is listening and interested in what you are saying. It can also be a sign of concentration, but either way, it means you have someone's attention. 

 

4.    Crossing Your Legs

 

Many people don't realize that crossing your legs is also body language and typically not a good one, as it can indicate you are uncomfortable. Please pay close attention when someone crosses their legs, though, as crossing them at the ankle rather than the knee can also indicate that they are hiding something. The direction their knee points will also indicate who they may be uncomfortable around. 

 

5.    Pulling on the Ear

 

Have you ever discussed something with a friend or coworker and noticed them pulling their ear? This form of body language can mean the individual is trying to make a decision but hasn't yet decided. This aspect of body language can come in handy when trying to make a business deal with another company! 

 

Overall, it will take lots of practice to learn to read all aspects of body language. But with these five examples, you will have a good head start as you learn what each motion means. So next time you are in a social situation, watch for these five forms of body language! 

 

5 Ways to Communicate With Body Language

Nothing is more important than presenting the appropriate body language for communication. Body language is one of the first things people notice about you, especially when meeting for the first time. 

 

If you want to ensure that you are relaying the right message, here are five ways you may want to practice body language.

 

1. Carry Yourself with Confidence

 

The way you carry yourself can convey to others how you feel about yourself or the conversation you are engaging in with them. The way to show confidence begins with your posture. When you stand with your back tall and shoulders relaxed, you can demonstrate to others that you have the confidence to carry on the conversation.

 

2. Lean In and Mirror

 

When you are sitting, lean your body slightly forward to show the other person that you are entirely interested in what they have to say. Additionally, mirroring the other person’s gestures occasionally can demonstrate that you are on the same page as they are. Both of these convey your level of attentiveness and can go a long way to the other person trusting in you.

 

3. Hand Movements and Other Gestures

 

Many studies have shown that using various gestures signifies accurate intelligence in people. Body language experts agree that using gestures and hand movements throughout a conversation can make or break a connection between the two people. Using a firm but not too firm handshake to using appropriate hand gestures while speaking can show the other person that you are confident and that you are credible.

 

4. Keep Your Eye Contact in Check

 

Most people know that making eye contact when having a conversation is one of the essential nonverbal skills you can demonstrate. People believe that the eyes tell a lot about a person’s credibility and character. While maintaining eye contact is crucial, it is also essential to remember that too much eye contact can be interpreted as awkward and even a bit creepy. Because of this, be sure to look away occasionally to keep this from happening.

 

5. Smiles, Nods, and Laughter

 

In most conversations, keep in mind that every person in the discussion is human, and because of this, some behaviors should come naturally. It is especially true for smiling, nodding, and even laughing. Smiling and laughing at appropriate times throughout the conversation can convey openness and a sense of humor that can make others feel at ease. Additionally, nodding on occasion shows the other person that you are not only listening but are also in the conversation with them.

 

Knowing ways to communicate with body language can make the difference between others feeling confident in you and what you have to say and think you are dishonest. Learning a few ways to convey your positive messages through body language can be the key to a successful conversation.

 

Body Language and Zoom: 3 On-Screen Body Language Tips

As if the idea of non-verbal communication was not already complicated enough, in comes the era of Zoom and other forms of virtual communication. When we are in person, we have the advantage of seeing a person's body language more broadly. Whereas when we are in virtual meetings, it is easy to misinterpret body language and other non-verbal communication. It is why you need to learn about these three on-screen body language tips that will help you send the right message when communicating virtually.

 

1. Keep Eye Contact

 

While this may be more challenging when you are on a Zoom meeting than in person, you need to be focused and present during the call. Many people mistake either looking at the other people on the video call or multitasking by having other tabs up, which can take your attention away and give off the impression that you are not present.

 

Most experts agree that while it is essential to look a person in the eye when face-to-face, this is entirely different when you are on a Zoom call. The person on the other side of the screen can only know you make eye contact when looking at the camera.

 

2. Be Mindful of the Position of Your Camera

 

For others on the Zoom call to see your body language and other non-verbal cues, you need to ensure that your camera is in the optimal position. This includes making sure that you do not have the camera too close to where all they see is your head. The best positioning allows other people to see your head and part of your torso so that you can use hand movements and gestures appropriately.

 

Since body language includes your body and not just your face and head, people must see the parts of your body that will help them interpret your thoughts and emotions during the video call.

 

3. Maintain a Good Posture

 

Since many of the Zoom calls are happening in the comfort of your home, you tend to be more relaxed by nature. This can become a problem during important video meetings because you can convey to others that you are distracted or bothered.

 

Maintaining good posture means sitting up tall but keeping your shoulders somewhat relaxed. If possible, make sure you are taking these Zoom calls at a table with a bit of a background and not sitting or lying on your couch. This will demonstrate to others that you are paying attention and are fully present with the conversation at hand.

 

All in all, following these three tips on on-screen body language can help you make a successful Zoom meeting rather than one that sends the wrong message to others. You want to exude a sense of professionalism while also showing you can be relaxed and present people must-see simultaneously during these important video meetings.

 

Body Language Mistakes You Don’t Realize You Are Making

Learning to read others' body language is difficult, but learning to read your own is difficult too. 

 

It can become a problem because your body language is so important that it can affect your ability to get a job, keep it, and maintain friendships. Below are some of the common body language mistakes you might be making, as well as the impact they could have on your life. 

 

Crossing Your Legs

 

This one is more common if you are a woman, but men have been known to cross their legs as well. You may do it out of habit or even just comfort because you like to sit that way. The reality is, crossing your legs indicates to others that you are uncomfortable, or worse, if you cross at your ankles, it means you might be hiding something. Therefore, you should do your best to keep your legs uncrossed and your feet flat on the floor. 

 

Not Maintaining Eye Contact

 

It can be uncomfortable to maintain eye contact with someone. However, if you don't maintain eye contact, it can convey several different things, such as boredom, being distracted, or worse, that you are lying. Many interviewers and those looking to make business deals are huge on eye contact, so next time you talk with someone, be sure to maintain eye contact. 

 

Eye contact doesn't mean you should constantly stare, though. You should naturally break eye contact occasionally, but keep your eyes on their face or hands and don't let them drift around the room. 

 

Crossing Your Arms

 

Crossing your arms across your chest is very similar to crossing your legs, as you may be doing it out of habit or simply because you are cold. However, it will help if you put a stop to it because it can tell someone you are guarded, not open to new experiences, or that you feel you are above them. Try instead to keep your arms hanging neutral at your side or folded nicely in your lap. 

 

Don’t Lean in Too Much

 

When talking with someone, leaning forward can show that you are interested and let them feel they are important. Be careful not to lean in too much as this can lead the person to think that you want something from them. It can lead to feelings of hesitancy on their end and could ruin a business agreement. 

 

Overall, you likely didn't know you were making any of these body language mistakes. Now that you know, it's time to adjust so you'll never make these body language mistakes again.