As someone who struggles with confidence at times, I have found the Gibbs learning cycle to be a helpful reflective model for building my confidence. In one particular situation at work, I had to lead a team meeting and present a new project proposal. I was nervous and felt unprepared, which led to a lack of confidence in my ability to lead and present effectively.
Using the Gibbs learning cycle, I first described the situation and then explored my feelings about it. I realized that my fear of failure was causing me to doubt myself. In the evaluation stage, I reflected on what went well and what didn’t. Although I stumbled a bit during the presentation, I received positive feedback from my team members, which boosted my confidence.
Through analysis, I understood that my lack of preparation was the root cause of my anxiety. I concluded that I needed to be more proactive in preparing for future presentations. In the action plan stage, I decided to schedule regular practice sessions before any future presentations and seek feedback from colleagues to improve my skills.
I also tried Schon’s model of reflection, specifically the reflection-on-action technique. I reflected on my performance after the team meeting and identified areas where I could improve my presentation skills. This allowed me to make adjustments in real-time and gave me the confidence to lead future meetings with more poise and control.
I also took a confidence test and found that I struggled with asserting myself in group settings. To address this, I watched a Ted Talk by Amy Cuddy called “Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are,” which focused on the power of body language in boosting confidence. I also tried the “Notes to self” exercise, where I wrote down positive affirmations and reminders of my strengths and achievements. These exercises helped me to feel more confident and assertive in group settings.
Overall, I have learned that building confidence is a continuous process that requires self-reflection and a growth mindset. It’s important to focus on your strengths, seek feedback regularly, and prioritize self-care. While imposter syndrome can be a challenge, it’s important to recognize and overcome it by reminding yourself of your accomplishments and seeking support when needed.
In conclusion, reflective models, confidence tests, and Ted Talks can be helpful tools for building confidence in the workplace. By using these resources and practicing self-care, we can become more confident and successful professionals. Remember to celebrate your achievements and seek support when needed, and always strive to reach your full potential.
References:
Cuddy, A. (2012). Your body language shapes who you are. [TED Talk]. TEDGlobal. https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_may_shape_who_you_are
Gibbs, G. (1988). Learning by doing: A guide to teaching and learning methods. Further Education Unit, Oxford Polytechnic.
Schön, D. A. (1983). The reflective practitioner: How professionals think in action. Basic Books.