As a woman it’s a question I have always wanted to know the answer to. Why does it seem like men have more confidence than women? I recently read an article from The Atlantic that discussed the confidence gap that seems to exist between men and women. The Atlantic stated that”evidence shows that women are less self-assured than men-and that to succeed, confidence matters as much as competence.”
I know there has been a great deal of conversation about the inequalities between men and women in jobs and in overall life. If confidence is a key to succeeding, then why does it seem like men succeed more than women? Are we simply just not as confident? Why not?
According to “The Confidence Gap” article in The Atlantic, women have “a force clearly holding them back.” This force isn’t seen as much within men and could explain why their confidence soars. Women don’t give themselves the credit that they deserve. They search for any reason possible to explain the good things that happen to them. When you get a raise at work or are promoted to a higher position, what’s the first thought that comes to mind? They must not have interviewed a lot of people…I’m sure they are giving raises to everyone…It was just luck! Luck? No! It’s because you worked your butt off and your hard work is being noticed, as it rightfully should. All you should really be saying is… I deserve this because I am awesome!
Men, on the other hand, have a confidence that allows them to be incredibly successful. “The Confidence Gap” articled stated that “on average…the men think they deserve $80,000 and the women $64,000-or 20% less.” What does this say about how women see themselves? It’s clear that some women don’t think they deserve to make as much money as men. Even if they attended the same college, achieved the same grades, and received the same degree. Our confidence just isn’t as high as men’s. Even in our current society of women achieving amazing success, we just aren’t where we should be yet. But don’t worry…confidence can be learned.
- Take advantage of an opportunity when it comes!
- Be optimistic, especially in new situations!
- Trust that you are enough!
- No more negative self-talk!
- Focus on the people who focus and believe in you!
Like I said, confidence can be learned. It isn’t something everyone is born with…it takes time to be confident. So, while you’re waiting for your confidence to come…FAKE IT UNTIL YOU FIT IT!
