Short summary
Key points
Having strong confidence in your own abilities is the key to living a successful life
In a study, some 600 college students were asked to state their most difficult personal problem. 75% listed lack of confidence as their biggest problem. It is safe to assume that the same large proportion is true of the general population.
Millions of people in the world go crawling through life on all fours, defeated and afraid. And in most situations, such frustration of power is absolutely unnecessary. It can be overcome when proper steps are taken. You can develop creative, justified faith in yourself.
According to Norman Vincent Peale, the key to eliminating inferiority-complex — profound self-doubt — is to develop tremendous faith in God. By doing this, you will invariably develop a humble yet soundly realistic faith in yourself. So, how do you acquire this dynamic faith? By prayer, by reading a meditation on the scripture, and by practicing its faith techniques.
Here are some simple, workable rules that can help you practice faith and consequently overcome attitudes of inadequacy.
First, create a vivid mental picture of yourself as succeeding. Hold the picture with utmost tenacity and never allow it to fade. Ultimately, your mind will seek to develop this picture.
Second, whenever a thought of negativity regarding your personal powers starts to come to mind, deliberately voice a positive thought to eliminate it.
Next, say this affirmation out loud: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13). Repeat it at least 10 times every day.
Finally, remind yourself that God is with you, and you cannot be defeated by anyone or anything. Have an unwavering faith that you now receive power from Him.