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42courses Podcast

Ian Robertson: How Confidence Works

Oct 10, 2023
Professor Ian Robertson discusses the inner workings of confidence and its impact on our self-belief. Topics include brain plasticity, reducing dementia, the importance of stimulation and engagement for individuals with dementia, how confidence acts as a self-fulfilling prophecy, the relationship between introversion and confidence, factors that influence confidence, and the dangers of overconfidence.
44:50

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Confidence is a self-fulfilling prophecy that activates the brain's reward network, leading to increased motivation, reduced anxiety, and improved performance.
  • External factors, such as social status and experiences, can influence confidence levels and play significant roles in shaping confidence.

Deep dives

Confidence as a Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

Confidence is a self-fulfilling prophecy that creates the state of mind where one believes they can achieve a desired outcome. This belief activates the brain's reward network, leading to increased motivation, reduced anxiety, and improved performance. It is the fuel that allows individuals to cross the bridge to the future and pursue goals. Confidence is not just about optimism or self-esteem, but about taking action and facing challenges despite fear. Overcoming anxiety and embracing failure are crucial in building confidence. Adversity and a sense of control play significant roles in shaping confidence levels.

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