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QUOTE
“Feeling confident – or pretending that you feel confident – is necessary to reach for opportunities. It’s a cliche, but opportunities are rarely offered; they’re seized.” (Sheryl Sandburg)
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INTERPRETATION
What it Means:
- Confidence is key, even if it’s faked. Sometimes opportunities must be pursued before you feel ready. The act of “faking it till you make it” can help you project the confidence needed to seize the moment.
- Proactiveness matters. Opportunities seldom come knocking on your door. You have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and go after what you want.
Why it’s Important
This quote highlights a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth. Here’s why it resonates:
- Imposter Syndrome is Real: Many of us struggle with self-doubt. This quote reminds us that even the most successful people sometimes feel unsure.
- Action breeds confidence: The act of stepping forward, even when afraid, can start to build genuine confidence over time.
- Missed opportunities: We’ve all experienced regret around the things we didn’t go for. This quote is a powerful motivator to be proactive.
How to Apply It
- Start Small: Before tackling major opportunities, practice confident action in smaller situations. Ask a question in class, volunteer for a task, or strike up a conversation.
- Focus on Posture and Body Language: Your physical presentation impacts how you feel. Stand tall, make eye contact, and use open gestures.
- Reframe Negative Thoughts: If your inner critic starts chattering, replace self-doubt with statements like “I’m going to give this my best shot” or “I have something valuable to offer.”
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