Verbal Persuasion

There are several ways to build CONFIDENCE…one of the most powerful ways are through your words.

There is a concept in psychology literature called Verbal Persuasion. Albert Bandura established this framework as a part of a bigger discussion on self-confidence.

When we think of persuasion, we typically envision the act of convincing someone to adopt a particular stance or decision.

The interesting thing about persuasion is that:

• Our opponents try to persuade us

• Our teammates try to persuade us

• Our families try to persuade us

• Our environments try to persuade us

• Our own thoughts (positive or negative) try to persuade us

So….who will you listen to?

I have developed a simple framework called the 5 S’s of Verbal Persuasion. You can apply one or all of these to instantly boost confidence levels.

1. Sermons(Speeches): Listening to motivational speeches or sermons can increase confidence. Have you ever heard an inspirational half-time speech, or listened to a powerful speech before competition? These are powerful motivators, and can skyrocket your confidence.

2. Scriptures: Holy texts, such as the Bible, are used by many Athletes to reinforce faith and self-belief. The Bible says in Romans 10:17 that, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Business mogul, Myron Golden, said something powerful that stuck with me: “Faith is built in the ears, doubt is built in the eyes.”

3. Sayings(Quotes): Inspirational quotes and motivational sayings are commonly displayed on personal items or in living spaces to encourage confidence. You probably have a favorite quote that you repeat to yourself frequently. You have likely written down powerful sayings that you have heard over the years. Athletes will place these on their mirrors, their equipment, and in their living places. Being able to remember powerful sayings at critical times can boost confidence.

4.  Self-Talk: Positive self-affirmation is one of the fastest ways to build confidence. Many elite Athletes ‘talk to themselves’. The act of speaking and hearing self-affirmations activates the limbic system (a brain region directly influencing behavior and emotional responses). Apart from God, your voice is perhaps the most powerful voice you will hear in this lifetime. Your words matter!

5. Songs: If you are anything like me, music is a big part of your life (and your game). Music, including pre-game playlists and hype songs, is widely used to prepare mentally and build confidence before performances. Nearly every professional sports arena will strategically use music at certain points to energize and encourage the home team…or use it to discourage and confuse the opponent.

   Use With Caution

   According to sport psychology literature, Verbal Persuasion is proven to positively impact confidence, but by itself it does not have lasting effect. The Bible tells us in James Chapter 2 that faith without works is dead.

   We have to DO SOMETHING along with what we have just heard. When you combine words with action….NOW you have a winning combination!

Your Friend,

Josiah