The Science of Confidence and Mentality

Constitutive Factors and Origin

Confidence is often misunderstood as an immutable personality trait, when in fact it is the combination of self-esteem (believing that one is capable and valuable) and the optimism necessary to convert that belief into courageous action. To cultivate it, we must first understand where it comes from.

There are three factors that determine it: first, biology or "birth factors," which include genetic predisposition and neurochemical balance; second, the social environment, i.e., how others treat us and contextual pressures; and third, the critical part over which we have total control: our decisions, the risks we take and how we respond to challenges.

Although we cannot rewrite our genetic code or completely control the external environment, personal choices play a decisive role.

If we seek an immediate boost before an important event, we may resort to quick fixes that alter our emotional state, such as listening to music that evokes feelings of power or adopting a physical victory posture.

These actions function as temporary catalysts to initiate action.

Neuroplasticity and Growth Mindset

For long-term sustainable change, we need to audit our belief system about talent.

If we operate under a "fixed mindset," we will believe our skills are static and give up at the first sign of incompetence.

In contrast, adopting a "growth mindset" involves viewing capabilities as muscles that grow stronger with use.

Those who adopt this view interpret challenge not as a threat, but as the indispensable path to learning.

Neuroscience supports this perspective: the brain is plastic and neural connections densify with study and deliberate practice.

Statistically, people who believe they can improve through effort achieve better results and greater life success than those who rely on innate talent alone.

Thus, confidence is not the absence of fear or the certainty of success, but the deep knowledge that, regardless of the outcome, experience and competence will be gained.

Summary

Confidence is not an immutable trait, but a combination of self-esteem and optimism influenced by biology, environment and our decisions. Although we do not control genetics, our personal choices are instrumental in developing it.

We can use temporary catalysts such as music or physical postures, but sustainable change requires adopting a "growth mindset." This perspective understands capabilities as muscles that grow stronger with challenge and practice.

Neuroscience supports that the brain is plastic and improves with deliberate effort. True confidence is not the certainty of success, but the knowledge that regardless of the outcome, experience and competence will be gained.