Confidence as self-deception
The Importance of Confidence
Isaac Olson, 18, Pitching Prospect for the University of Cincinnati
out with the doubt
"'What can I do to help me out?' As opposed to, 'What's going to happen if I don't do this or don't do that?'"
When negativity surrounds us, how do we respond? Some would say that a change in mindset is all we need to escape that negativity. Psychologist Philip Brickman would argue that the very presence of negative situations can trigger positivity: in relationships, Brickman believes that “people rationalize their partner’s faults by embellishing or exaggerating their virtues" (Murray, Holmes, and Griffin). To be able to believe that something will occur takes it one step further. Rather than only recognizing the positive aspects of something, belief is “a feeling of being sure that someone or something exists or that something is true” (Merriam-Webster).
Optimism vs. Pessimism
Once belief is put into place,
it is a very powerful tool. Usually
when faced with adversity, be it
internal or external, belief makes
its presence known: “when you’re able to infuse the positive version of your “self” with a strong belief that you can achieve the outcome you desire, that view of what is possible, then you’re creating a catalyst to your growth and development” (LaBier).
It is what helps people get past that adversity and on the path of success. LaBier states, “if you embrace the vision of possibility, and act in ways consistent with the goal or outcome you desire, it will occur,” so not only having this mindset, but acting in accordance with the mindset will lead to accomplishing goals. Having this mindset of belief that something will happen translates directly into confidence. In various situations for various reasons, people choose to
experience events with
optimism, with the glass
half-full, rather than
half-empty.
on the diamond
Is there such thing as being TOO confident?
In sports, playing without confidence does not go hand in hand with having success. Having confidence means you play to win, you play as if you have no deficiencies. Confidence eliminates all doubt from your mind, giving you the competitive edge if your opponent shows any sort of weakness. Isaac gives knowledge based on experience for how essential confidence truly is in sports: