Happy September.

To support you in being F.I.R.S.T. (Future-Ready. Innovative. Relevant. Strategic. Trusted.), here's 1 tip and 1 quote.

1. The F.I.R.S.T. Tip

Have you ever experienced that feeling of being more competent than you are - only to be humbled by reality?

This phenomenon, known as the Dunning-Kruger effect, is one of the greatest barriers to building genuine, sustainable self-trust. The truth is, true self-trust isn't about deluding ourselves into thinking we're perfect. It's about cultivating an accurate, unvarnished understanding of our strengths and limitations - and then using that self-knowledge to fuel our growth.

Here are 3 ways that you can use to escape the Dunning-Kruger trap for good.

1. Admit What You Don't Know

The first step is to get real about your weaknesses. Where are you making excuses? What feedback do you tend to ignore? These blind spots are where the Dunning-Kruger effect takes hold.

Rather than getting defensive, approach these areas with curiosity. Ask yourself: What am I missing? What don't I understand? The more willing you are to acknowledge your limitations, the faster you can address them.

2. Seek Out Candid Feedback

Once you've identified your weaknesses, it's time to seek out feedback - the more candid, the better. This might mean asking a trusted friend for an honest assessment or reaching out to a mentor you respect.

The temptation will be to only listen to praise but constructive criticism, even when it stings, is the only way to gain an accurate, unbiased understanding of yourself.

3. Develop a Growth Mindset

With a clearer picture of your strengths and weaknesses, adopt a growth mindset. See your abilities as fluid and expandable, rather than fixed.

Instead of getting defensive when you fall short, ask yourself: How can I improve? What steps can I take to close this gap? Approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.

True self-trust isn't about perfection - it's about the confidence to continuously improve. Embrace the discomfort, seek out candid feedback, and watch as your life transforms in ways you never thought possible.

F.I.R.S.T. Tip: Overcome overconfidence and build self-trust by actively seeking candid feedback.

2.The F.I.R.S.T. Quote

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