And, I also think that 90% of all business problems stem from number two. When I say business problems I mean why we dont achieve what we say we want to achieve or why we dont do what we say we want to do.

So, of course, the next question you might ask is why dont we do what we know how to do? And the answer is. we havent built up the self-confidence needed for the goal at hand.

Look learning is easy accumulating knowledge is easy. There are lots of people who know what you need to know and are willing to share the information with you. So, again why arent you doing what you say you want to do? Again, I say not enough self-confidence.

Were born with high levels of confidence in certain areas and not in others. And its different for all of us. But well need different levels of confidence depending on what we want to do with our lives. It takes one level of confidence to give a speech in front of 5 people and another level of confidence to give a speech in front of 500 and again, another level of confidence to speak in front of 5000. So, if youre not working on developing your confidence and thinking bigger about who you are and what you offer the world, you very well may not put yourself in situations where youd have an opportunity to present in front of 5000 people.

There are two very simple things I recommend to solve this profoundly important problem:

First, learn in action. Learning in action is the key to success when venturing into uncharted territory. You cant wait to have all the answers. You certainly dont want to go out in the world half-baked but you dont need a Doctorate in marketing to create awareness for the solutions that you provide or a Masters in public speaking to give a speech.

This is a big problem for many people waiting until they are sure that they have all the info they could possibly have about how to do something before theyll try it. Its just not effective and stems from a lack of self-confidence.

I feel that if you do nothing else as a personal and business building strategy, work on building up your self confidence so youll be able to do everything that you say you want to do.

And second, develop a self-confidence plan. I do affirmations every day. In the morning when I wake up and at night before I go to sleep. Well, actually, I only do them Monday through Friday but that should cover you.

Read Napoleon Hills inspirational classic Think and Grow Rich for a plethora of affirmations that will help you build your self-confidence.

And in closing dont forget to have a mad passionate love affair with yourself. Love, embrace and believe in yourself. I know how realistic it is to become wildly successful. You can totally create an abundant, joyful and prosperous business life if youre willing to do the work.

About The Author

Copyright 2004

(article can be used freely in publications provided article is left in tact and full bio is used. Send courtesy copy to michael@michaelport.com)

Michael Port is on a crusade for the success of solo-professionals and is especially well known for his passion, personality, point of view (and unrelenting sense of humor). Under the banner of Michael Port & Associates, LLC, he provides seminars, keynotes, training programs, coaching and a popular e-zine to solo-professionals, helping them build thriving businesses. His expertise lies in the areas of personal brand identity development, motivation, leadership, performance, teamwork and communication. Michaels mantra: be brave be bold be yourself for profit and fun! michael@michaelport.com

michael@michaelport.com