The Magic of Confidence

James Nord wrote a post earlier today called “Where have all of the cool kids gone?” — talking about the things that make us “cool” and ultimately, about being confident in yourself. Ashley and I had this conversation last night, and I wanted to chime in.

You know what I was good at when I was a kid? Nothing but imagination.

I was horrible at most sports, awkward with girls and liked but not popular. Yet, I knew exactly what it would look like to make a game-winning three pointer, how Megan Thole would blush and then hug me after she read the poem I wrote, and how hot the lights would feel up on stage as I accepted my many many awards.

I imagined myself succeeding so much that I started believing I was successful. Even when I wasn’t. And at no point did the result of any one scenario change how hard I worked or the types of girls I fell madly in love with. I didn’t settle, I didn’t give up, I didn’t stop trying or learning or playing.

My parents never told me to be confident; they encouraged me to be and believe in myself. They supported dreams. They cheered for underdogs. They provided positive reinforcement.

And eventually, all of the things listed above (in some capacity) happened to me. Now, as an adult, I’m better for it. Everything that I’m good at/get paid to do/passionately enjoy doing comes hand in hand with an awesome story about how and why I believe I can.

It’s not entitlement. It’s not arrogance. It’s self confidence. And as hokey as it sounds, it’s way bigger than cool.

17 Notes/ Hide

  1. jamesnord said: Well said, I expect little else from you sir
  2. lauren said: Ugh soulm you are the coolest person I know. And that Megan Thole was a bitch.
  3. tylerriewer posted this