How Confident Are You Really?

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I've written about self-confidence here as well as in my book, The Self-Confidence Workbook: In this post, I explained how self-confidence is linked to almost every area involved in a happy life. My post, 13 Things Confident People Don't Do, has been viewed more than 100,000 times.

Clearly, confidence is a hot topic.

The quiz below will give you some insight into your current level of confidence. Read each statement and circle A if it is true for you most of the time; B if it is true for you some of the time; and C if it is not usually true. (You can jot down your answers on a scrap of paper.)

Below, I'll reveal what your answers indicate.

I have a realistic sense of my strengths and weaknesses. A B C

I am willing to take risks for something I believe in. A B C

I plan and prepare for new experiences. A B C

I have ways to cope with fear and doubt. A B C

I take time to remember my past successes. A B C

I recognize failure as a part of life. A B C

I can cope with unexpected changes. A B C

I am comfortable asking for help and support. A B C

I know what I value in life. A B C

My actions generally line up with my values. A B C

I don’t give up easily. A B C

I realize not everyone will like or approve of me. A B C

I have a sense of my inherent worth. A B C

I understand setbacks are normal and to be expected. A B C

I don’t beat up on myself when I go through a rough time. A B C

My thoughts don’t paralyze me when I try something new. A B C

Here’s how to interpret your score

• Mostly A’s: Your confidence is on solid ground. You’re doing a great job of not allowing obstacles to get in your way of meeting valued goals.
• Mostly B’s: You’re right in the middle, sometimes recognizing your accomplishments and other times, focusing on where you’re falling short. Your answers indicate you may fall prey to common pitfalls that undermine self-confidence.
• Mostly C’s: Your self-confidence is a little shaky, but that’s OK. Remember, there is no one with “total” self-confidence all of the time. You may need to ease up on yourself, notice your accomplishments, and find ways to handle setbacks.

Adapted from The Self-Confidence Workbook: A Guide to Overcoming Self-Doubt and Improving Self-Esteem. Copyright © 2018 by Barbara Markway and Celia Ampel.