We recently explored the positive effects of self-efficacy, but it also occurred to me that I should write about the negative effects high levels of self-efficacy can also have.
Confidence and self-efficacy can be a double-edged sword. Everything should be done in moderation, so while developing higher levels of self-efficacy, be aware of the adverse effects it can cause as well.
Benefits of High Self-Efficacy
- A belief of being able to overcome challenges, and master both existing and new skills
- An ability to remain calm when approaching challenging tasks
- Increases one’s willingness to try new experiences and learn new skills
- Encourages setting higher expectations for future performance
- Increases persistence and focus on a given task
- Increased motivation towards goal attainment
Disadvantages of High Self-Efficacy
1. Overconfidence
Studies show being overconfident can happen when self-efficacy expectations are too high for the ability to meet the objective. Overconfidence then leads to not listening to other’s inputs and can be “shocking” when there is a failure that disrupts the sense of self-efficacy.
To avoid feeling overconfident, continue to learn from experts, listen to constructive criticism, and stay humble.
2. Accepting the blame for every failure.
Not every failure is your fault. Time, resources, and even other people can cause you to fail. Especially in individualistic societies like the United States, everyone is a “master of their destiny.” Studies show that even victims of natural disasters with high self-efficacy blame themselves when they couldn’t do more to help others or themselves.
Sometimes you can do everything right, and an external game of chance determines you fail. That is okay. It is about doing all you can and trying again.
3. Not enjoying being in the moment
By consistently looking for feedback and trying to fine-tune every aspect of personal development, sometimes the meaning in the moment can be lost. Instead of trying to optimize based on every point of feedback.
At some point, you have to let yourself be in the moment. You can prepare for weeks for an important presentation at work, but once you are presenting, you have to let it go. Be in the moment of that presentation and enjoy it. Stop trying to analyze everything. You are not a robot, enjoy the experience and reflect on it after.
4. Disappointment.
As the equation states, disappointment = expectation – reality.
Those with high self-efficacy tend to report more feelings of disappointment with themselves than the average.
Self-efficacy leads to feelings of influencing results, but when those results are different than expected, it can lead to disappointment. Even when results are good. The easy example being in school expecting an A+ but getting an A-, still a good grade, but disappointment is still there.
Do your best, and learn along the way, but do not be committed to certain outcomes. Try your best to get a positive result, and know that can look different than what was expected. That is perfectly fine too.
Main takeaway
- Self-efficacy is important in achieving our dreams and believing in ourselves. Develop a modest level of it, and do not go overboard trying to be overconfident or holding onto expectations too tightly.
Action item
Take a breather. Relax today. Know that you are developing into the person you want to be. Sometimes, that means permitting yourself to just hang-out for a little.
