In Confidence

This week, we explore Confidence as a virtue; a strength of character. First, consider the Virtues Reflection Card:

The strength to face what life brings, to act with self-assurance, appreciating our mistakes as lessons; this is Confidence. To practice patience and mastery; this is Confidence. To fully express our talents, capacities and ideas... this too is Confidence. Maintaining a positive outlook and trust in others is Confidence. The virtue that is Confidence goes beyond simple notions of perceived self-confidence. It reaches for a confidence in life itself.

L.P. Jacks

... spoke to it in his description of the master in the art of living.

A master in the art of living draws no sharp distinction between his work and his play; his labor and his leisure; his mind and his body; his education and his recreation. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence through whatever he is doing, and leaves others to determine whether he is working or playing. To himself, he always appears to be doing both.

Max Ehrmann

... spoke to it in Desiderata.

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Confidence is not arrogance, suffice it to say. It is Humble Swagger. This quote below speaks to me of true Confidence manifested.

Talisman is defined as something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects. This quote speaks to the notion that we are each the ultimate Talisman; if we but realize. With Confidence, we know we have the capacity to try, learn and grow. We are indeed the ultimate Talisman.

With Confidence, there is no shame or blame... only moving forward. Imagine this in the classroom and on campus. Imagine this at work, in business and in our communities. Imagine practicing Confidence ourselves and drawing it out in others at school, work, business and community. Imagine it in our homes and circles, with family and friends.

This week, we explore Confidence as one of the strengths of leadership,.. building it in ourselves and others. Join us.

Peace, passion and prosperity.

Barry Lewis Green, aka The Unity Guy?

Barry is ultimately a vocalist, strength coach and educator. His work is about exploring, identifying, practicing and mastering our strengths and building upon them through practical and powerful unity and resourcefulness. That is why Barry is The Unity Guy?. EPIC Engage? is an extension of The Unity Guy?. The Epic work is all about building strong, united and inspired cultures lead by character… at school, work, business and community; where everyone matters and contributes everyday.

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Here are some additional resources that may be of use and\or interest:

• thoughts on compassion and responsibility
• 9 leaders on taking charge of our lives
• 12 leaders interviewed on leadership and character
• thoughts on Conviction and Character
• 380+ posts on Character and Leadership.

PPPS (Other Resources)

• Our work is all about character. We work hard and joyfully to help build character driven, united and resourceful organizations and communities around the globe. As part of that work, we offer you …
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