As is our confidence, so is our capacity.

— William Hazlitt, English essayist, drama and literary critic, painter, social commentator, and philosopher, 1778-1830

To have that sense of one’s intrinsic worth which constitutes self-respect is potentially to have everything.

— Joan Didion, U.S. writer and nominee for the Pulitzer Prize for Biography/Autobiography, Born 1934

It is as proper to have pride in oneself as it is ridiculous to show it to others.

— Francois de La Rochefoucauld, French nobleman and author of maxims and memoirs, 1613-1680

Self-esteem isn’t everything; it’s just that there’s nothing without it.

— Gloria Steinem, U.S. feminist, journalist, and social political activist, Born 1934

As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live.

— Johann von Goethe, German statesman and writer of poetry, dramas, and numerous scientific treatises, 1749-1832

Experience tells you what to do; confidence allows you to do it.

— Stan Smith, U.S. tennis player, two-time Grand Slam singles champion and recipient of numerous other Grand Prix Championship titles. Born 1946

They are able because they think they are able.

— Virgil, Roman poet who wrote three of the most famous poems in Latin literature, 70 – 19 B.C.E.

The way in which we think of ourselves has everything to do with how our world sees us.

Nobody holds a good opinion of a man who has a low opinion of himself.

— Anthony Trollope, English novelist whose works revolve around political, social, and gender issues, 1815-1882

Perhaps I am stronger than I think.

— Thomas Merton, U.S. Trappist monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist, 1915-1968

Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence.

— Vince Lombardi, U.S. football player, championship coach, and executive in the National Football League, 1913-1970

Skill and confidence are an unconquered army.

— George Herbert, Welsh-born poet, orator, and priest of the Church of England who also served briefly in the Parliament of England, 1593-1633
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