You only need 3 types of freedom. Here's how to master one of them:
Note: I’m moving to a new newsletter tool, which means Super Sunday letters may come to you on different days of the week for a limited time period. This is essential for the tool to be effective as it starts.
The content will continue to be the same. I appreciate your patience until we move back into Sunday rhythms. ☺️
Hello friend! 👋
Research shows that autonomy (freedom) is the #1 need we have; once satisfied, we make choices that stem from internal (and abundant) motivation.
In my opinion there are 3 freedoms we want to have:
Financial Freedom: the ability to afford what you wish to get.
Psychological Freedom: the ability to trust that you’ll figure it out.
Physiological Freedom: the ability to physically do the activities you want.
Today’s focus is the second freedom.
Let’s unpack that together.
1. Build awareness
(define the concept)
Before we begin, a bit of etymology to set the stage: confidence comes from Latin confidere, meaning intense trust. Intense trust in your abilities to do what is needed to achieve the outcome desired!
Prof. Albert Bandura calls it agency, and there are 5 ways that have been extensively researched and proven as methods to build agency.
Direct Experiences:
According to research, this is the most effective way to build agency. Nothing teaches a lesson better than personal experience. Confidence grows as more experiences are racked up.
Role Modeling
Role modeling is not about copying, but about getting inspired by what’s possible. Whether dead or alive, role models help us see what can be achieved.
Social Persuasion
Encouragement from others is crucial. Positive feedback from others fosters a culture of confidence.
Physiological + Emotional States
Physiology drives psychology. Your physical state greatly influences your confidence.
Visualization
Visualization can be as powerful as real experience in certain situations. The brain’s ability to create neural pathways through thought alone is comparable to real practice.
Follow the next steps to bring those to life.
2. Make these choices:
(decisions/actions to bring it to life)
ake the insights from these 5 ways and put them into practice:
Start small: Break down a big goal into manageable steps.
Seek role models: Surround yourself with inspiration and guidance.
Encourage and be encouraged: Foster a positive feedback loop.
Build physical strength: Enhance your confidence through physical activity.
Visualize success: Regularly practice mental visualization of your ONE goal.
3. Build them in a system:
(using the science of habit and willpower to make it consistent)
The best way to build a system for increasing your confidence is to keep a journal. Here’s a process to keep it alive:
Reflect on a specific area in your life where you want to build more confidence.
How can you apply the five methods — Direct Experiences, Role Modeling, Social Persuasion, Physiological States, and Visualization — to strengthen your confidence in this area?
Write down actionable steps for each method and revisit them regularly to track your progress.
That’s all for today, thanks for reading.
Make today count by charging up your agency, my friend.
Have a Super Sunday! ⚡️
With much joy,
Hashim