The Divine Mysteries Of Competence And Confidence

How do we hone a certain ability enough to be competent and confident with the knowledge gained, developed and demonstrated, without having to continually prove our ‘worth and merit’? And, should we feel the need to prove our expertise in any area of life, are we not placed in a defensive position, whereby the competence is then easily questioned and the confidence doubted?

Some may argue that confidence is an inborn trait and can not necessarily be developed by perfecting a certain craft, skill, talent or gift. But, those who takes this position often have not done their own homework in establishing, cultivating and maintaining their own expanded potential.

Competence comes through repetitious practice, until the act is perfected. Then, confidence rides piggy back on this polished competence. We no longer need to think about what is being achieved. Yes, too much thinking interferes with our competence, and therefore inhibits confidence.

In order to learn to ride a bicycle with ease, one must practice. You must also fall a few times, and learn to work with the Law of Gravity, until balance is more consistently maintained. But, even then, the magical fun of riding a bike instinctively happens of its own accord, without the rational interference or assistance of the rider. Once accomplished, no one can unlearn it.

Learning to play the guitar is achieved the same way. And one will have to practice a lot, sometimes with calloused, bruised fingers, for many tedious, seemingly ‘non-productive’ hours, to become even a mediocre musician. Ask any accomplished musician. Continue reading →