"Fake it till you make it" is a popular phrase that suggests that if you act confident and capable in a particular situation, even if you do not feel that way, you can eventually develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed. While this approach can sometimes be effective in the short term there may be some drawbacks to this mantra.

Confidence and competence do not always go hand in hand. Individuals can often feel confident in their abilities even if they are not actually competent in those areas. This is known as the confidence paradox.

The confidence paradox can have both positive and negative effects. On one hand, confidence can be a significant motivating factor, encouraging individuals to get through a task, pursue their goals and take risks. Confidence can also positively impact one's social and professional relationships by giving off an aura of self-assurance.

However, faking confidence can lead to a lack of competence. While acting confident and capable can sometimes get individuals through a particular situation, it does not necessarily mean that they have the required skills or knowledge to succeed in the long term. When individuals pretend to be something they are not, they may feel like they do not deserve their accomplishments and that they are "faking it" in their profession or personal life.

On the other hand, if the individual got through the situation by “faking it” they may become overconfident and lack self-awareness. When individuals feel overly confident in their abilities, they may not take the necessary steps to develop their skills further, resulting in a lack of competence in certain areas. This can lead to poor decision-making, errors, and missed opportunities.

The confidence paradox is often perpetuated by societal and cultural norms that prioritise confidence over competence. In many fields, individuals who exude confidence and charisma are often seen as more successful than those who are more reserved or introverted, even if the reserved individuals are more competent.

To overcome the confidence paradox, individuals need to develop a balance between confidence and competence. This means acknowledging one's strengths and weaknesses and being open to feedback and constructive criticism. It also means taking steps to develop one's skills further and constantly learning and growing. By being accountable and transparent, individuals can build trust and credibility, which are essential for success in any field.

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