Every person who has realized the call on their life comes to a point where they recognize that growth is essential. Growing individuals have a hunger to expand, become more deeply rooted, reach higher points, rise up to the light that nourishes them.
How do we build confidence and credibility in our calling?
Every question like this has a root, buried beneath all the assumptions, frustrations and fears that we don’t want to expose. However, when we identify the root of the issue, we can then move forward to grow through it. The root of this question: Do you know your value? When you know your value, you can walk into any circumstance with the understanding of the impact you can make. When you have lost sight of your value, you have to work to build your confidence and credibility in every aspect of your calling.
I hope the brief directive that follows will add value to you as you carry out your calling.
How do I build Confidence?
Know why you’re there. When you walk into a room, why are you there? Your purpose, mission, or intent is central to your confidence in that situation. When you have confidence, you can play your role in that room. Simply put… when you’re on a mission, nothing else matters. This is what Paul talks about in 2 Timothy 2:4… “a soldier doesn’t concern himself with civilian matters, but rather works to please his commander”.
Know what you’re bringing. What qualities do you have that are unique to how you are wired? What value do you bring to the table? In knowing this, you are able to focus on using that value, and learning from the value others bring. Simply put… you need to know what you’re bringing.
Know where you stand. What relationships do you have, or can you build, that will be integral in how you carry yourself in that room? How can you make someone else better? What sets you apart? In essence, know the situations you can put yourself in to succeed. Everyone has them, few know how to maximize them.
“When you’re on a mission, nothing else matters.”
How do I build Credibility?
Know that you’re needed and trusted. If you’re in the room, it’s for a reason. Someone wants you there, and either you need to gain something from it, or it’s your turn to uplift someone else. When you are given an area to oversee, own it. The greatest growth comes from taking a step into uncharted territory, so be willing to take ownership of your opportunity!
Know that confidence results in performance. Others will trust you when you have confidence in yourself. What results is a powerful combination of initiative and exploration. What sets a leader apart from a performer are the qualities of initiative and attitude. Take initiative. Bring ideas. Watch as more opportunities are created by your willingness to add value.
Know the value of embracing correction. In a healthy environment, correction comes from a belief in the work that can be done. When your supervisor admires your character, correction is connected to what you’re doing, not who you are. They want your performance to be aligned with your potential. Embrace correction, ask for it, and be willing to accept that you won’t like what you hear.
“What sets a leader apart from a performer are the qualities of initiative and attitude.”
What matters most is character.
Character is what you are no matter who is in the room, and no matter what room you are in. Character requires molding, and it is always multifaceted. You may be gifted with confidence. You may have credibility due to your abilities. But neither of those can compensate for bad character. Spend more time on your character than you do on your gift.
Use this season to develop the confidence and credibility that come from a strong character.
Blessings, Caleb Murphree
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