Confidence is a critical skill for those that aspire to be exceptional leaders.  That is not to say with a high level of confidence you will be a great leader, other behavioural skills are needed.

However, the ability to practice confidence with an optimal balance to other leadership attributes is a foundational behaviour without which you can never achieve greatness.

Believe

Ask not “why me”, rather accept, analyze and trust your ability to rely on yourself to succeed.  Each of us have the capability to achieve our goals.

For the individual,  a key first step to positive results is full confidence in yourself.  If you don’t believe in yourself or your abilities others will sense it.

Without confidence your leadership capabilities (no matter how well developed) cannot be effectively utilized as others sense the indecision and question your leadership.

Arrogance

To be effective confidence must not be interpreted by others as conceit, pride. self importance, egotism, etc.  While demonstrating  confidence is crtical skill for leaders it must be done in a balanced way.

The use of self awareness skills to ensure the behaviour is not negatively interpreted is needed otherwise the effect can be more detrimental and thus lead to negative results.

Why Not Me?

Ultimately, in any set of circumstances the  best mental approach to start with is “why not me” as opposed to why me.  This simple shift in thinking moves you from insecurity to confidence and can make a huge difference in defining your leadership abilities.