How to gain confidence
The way to gain confidence is to:

* Break tasks into smaller units,
* Acknowledge your success for each step, and
* Learn from your mistakes to re-enforce your confidence.

1. Break task into smaller steps
Before you set out to perform a task or try to achieve a goal, you must realize that the activity is really a series of smaller steps. This is a basic concept in any type of project planning. Thus, instead of waiting until the end to determine if you are successful, you have a series of successes, leading up to the finish.

2. Acknowledge success for each step
For each one of these steps or mini-tasks, you must acknowledge your success. Congratulate yourself each time you succeed. If you don't do well, correct your error. Take care about admonishing yourself, except in extreme cases.

3. Re-enforce overall confidence
This self-talk will re-enforce your acknowledgment of your abilities and increase your confidence as you go along on achieving the greater goal.

Examples of gaining confidence

Playing tennis
For example, your goal may be to win a tennis match. Each time you hit the ball, you are performing a mini-task or small step necessary to complete your final goal of winning the game.

Each time you hit the ball solidly, say to yourself, "Good shot." Each time you miss, note what to correct. Perhaps say, "Follow through next time."

Throughout the game, your confidence will build, such that even if you lose the match to a better player, you will feel sure of your overall ability to play well.