Self Efficacy - Belief Vs Skill

 


In 1977, Albert Bandura proposed an idea that your results are not a result of skill, they are dictated by what you believe, you can do. It was termed "The self-efficacy code.”


Students, athletes, white/blue collar workers and leaders were studied. The were matched for the same intelligence, available resources and opportunities It was observed that people with talent failed while those without it succeeded. The difference wasn't ability.

Why?

Some people attempted challenges. Others avoided them entirely. Some persisted after failure. Others quit immediately.

The outcome wasn't dictated by skill, it was the pattern of belief. Not positive thinking, Not confidence. A deeper belief: "Can I handle this?”

Bandura suggested belief in your ability shapes your behaviour before reality.

What you believe you can do determines what you try. What you try determines what you become. He called this belief Self-Efficacy.

What behaviour does self-efficacy shape?

  • What challenges you face
  • How much effort you give
  • How long you persist
  • How you respond to failure
Two people. Same skill. One believes: "I can handle this.” The other believes: "I can't." One grows. Other stalls. This is the Self-Efficacy Code.

It leads to attempt vs avoidance, persistence vs quitting focus vs anxiety, growth vs stagnation, action vs hesitation.

Success comes from belief and also success creates belief.

Low self-efficacy often prevents positive change. "You don't fail, you never try." You call it "being realistic." It's actually self-protection.

The ceiling stays invisible, but permanent. Most limits aren't real.


Increasing your Self-Efficacy

STEP 1-Chunk The Challenge

Chunk tasks into elements that are manageable. You increase the chances of achieving more in the time available which increases your belief in success. Self-efficacy grows from success not overwhelm.

STEP 2- Note Evidence Of Success

Note your success. Document them. Collect evidence which is proof that: ”I handled this.” Belief is shaped by experience.

STEP 3- Challenge and Stretch

Challenge oneself, just enough to stretch your belief in your ability. Each successful stretch shapes belief.


Find out more about how Hypnotherapy can help you improve self-efficacy and challenge unhelpful ways of behaving at www.ketteringhypnotherapy.com or call/text David on 07429 522 723

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