Love him or hate him – most will agree that the one thing Donald Trump has, is confidence. And look where it took him! The Oval Office, anyone?!

While more Trumps may not help the world, it is true that confidence takes you places. Self-confidence is often quoted as the one thing that predicts winners with more certainty than ability, skill, qualification or any training. Yes, all of those factors would contribute too, but eventually it is what one thinks about his own ability, skill, qualification and training that sets him apart.

Here we are not talking about an exaggerated, unrealistically positive view of oneself; but self-confidence based on realistic self-appraisal, which has tangible benefits in our everyday lives. Some of them are:

1. Greater sense of self-worth: Confidence is a realistic acceptance and pride in who you are. And increased self-worth further increases self-confidence .

2. Reduced self-doubt: As you grow more assured of your capabilities and worth, doubts and questions will dissipate. Confidence and self-doubt cannot coexist.

3. Greater strength and capabilities: Increased confidence helps you recognise and use your capabilities in turn strengthening and enhancing them.

4. Freedom from fear and anxiety: The fear of negative outcomes automatically diminishes when you are sure of your ability to accept, face and learn from situations – even negative ones.  

5. Freedom from social anxiety: When one is unsure of their own worth, they tend to place great importance on how others see them, increasing anxiety. Confidence in oneself reverses it.

6. More fulfilling relationships: Overcoming the fear of rejection helps one become more honest about one’s own feelings, desires and opinions while accepting those of others, creating more open and fulfilling relationships.

7. Less stress: Reduced fear, anxiety and doubt leads to greater peace of mind!

8. Better sleep and health: When you are less stressed, you will sleep better and see an improvement in overall physical and mental well-being.

9. More energy and motivation: When energy is not being spent over-analysing and battling fears, you will feel motivated to pursue your dreams and take action.

10. Greater success: Confidence allows you to tap into your true potential, increasing the chances of success. Confident people are also perceived by others as being more capable.

11. More fulfilment: All the points above contribute to a more fulfilled, content life!

Like all good things in life, self-confidence doesn’t come easy. Even the most confident of people – yes, perhaps even Trump – would have their moments of doubt and anxiety. It has to be nurtured with loving care – strengths need to be identified, shortcomings accepted and addressed, skills learnt and that little voice inside that tells you “you are no good” needs to be hushed.

If you think you need a little help doing all this, speaking to an objective counsellor can provide the assistance required.