To gain and maintain confidence – whether it is for surfing big waves or any other challenges I take on in life – is constant work. I have noticed that for me the more I feel prepared, dedicated and focused, the more I can obtain self-confidence and stop doubting myself and the many variables I actually have no control. When you have put 100% of hard work into something, it’s easier to let go of variables and be content with yourself whatever outcome you may obtain.
My confidence levels obviously vary a lot, and it really depends on timing and in what moment of my life I am in. For surfing big waves, nothing is better than being on a roll. Training really hard and surfing heavy waves with consistency is the key to making me much calmer and confident when the big day comes around. But for an instance if I am a bit sick or have been travelling a lot and a massive swell hits the chart I will have my confidence low. In those moments I try and reflect and make a decision whether to go or not depending on my own felling and situation at that time.
To believe in yourself and give yourself a real shot in something is essential. You’ve got to be confident in yourself in order to make progress. And confidence combined with hard work can make or break a moment. You have to always be the first to believe, and confidence is essential in that process.
To believe in yourself and give yourself a real shot in something is essential.
