The psychology of success: How university education boosts your confidence

At Arden University, we understand that success looks different to every student pursuing a degree. Some students choose to study with us to broaden their career prospects and enhance their professional aspirations, while others seek the personal growth that achieving a degree offers.

Whatever your motivation to study at Arden University is, the psychology of success plays an integral role in self-fulfilment and confidence during higher education.

So, how does the perception of success and achievement shape your confidence during and after education?

Introduction to the psychological aspects of success and achievement

There has been a lot of research into the psychology of success and how a person’s perception of achievement can affect performance and confidence levels.

The saying ‘you must be willing to fail in order to succeed’ addresses the stronghold that the fear of failure has over success and its detrimental effect on a person’s willingness to succeed. It is widely believed that an aspect of the psychology of success involves accepting failure and vulnerability.

Adopting a positive mindset and practising positive visualisation are essential components in achieving success. However, addressing the prospect of failure and accepting negativity to achieve your goals is just as important in the psychology of success.

How does education enhance confidence and competence?

Higher education can develop and accelerate confidence levels in multiple ways. From increased knowledge and experience to achieving high marks, education can play a significant role in developing confidence and competence.

Here are a few benefits of university education in enhancing confidence:

1. Regular feedback

Feedback is an important aspect of education and personal development. No student enjoys receiving negative feedback, and using constructive comments to improve performance is a valuable life skill. Regular feedback during a degree will also include positive feedback, which contributes to increased confidence and belief in a student’s ability to succeed.

2. Setting and achieving goals

One of the benefits of university education is learning to set realistic goals and achieve them. Setting short-term and long-term goals increases motivation and allows your to realise your potential. Every time a you meet a goal, it help increase your confidence levels.

3. Communication

Communication skills are integral to success in many industries worldwide. Pursuing a degree allows you to develop communication skills through presenting, sharing ideas and networking with industry professionals. You can also gain cross-cultural communication skills by connecting with other students in a supportive learning environment, which improves overall confidence levels.   

4. Knowledge is power

Knowledge of key topics gives you the confidence to showcase their understanding throughout their degree. When a student feels knowledgeable about a subject, it allows them to communicate confidently and have confidence in their ability to answer questions and share perspectives.

Cognitive benefits of learning: Problem-solving and critical thinking

A degree provides many professional benefits, including career development and increased knowledge. A degree also develops essential skills, such as problem-solving and critical thinking.

The ability to analyse, critique and apply knowledge is valuable to employers worldwide, which multiplies your employment opportunities. Problem-solving is also an important ingredient to success. Students face numerous challenges during higher education and require problem-solving skills to overcome roadblocks and unlock their potential.

At Arden University, we champion lifelong learning, which enhances the cognitive benefits of education and provides professionals with skills for life.

The transformative power of education on confidence and success

Education plays an important role in improving your confidence and providing a foundation for professional success. You can benefit from opportunities for personal growth and development while pursuing a degree.

If you’re interested in learning more about the psychology of success and exploring human behaviours, check out the psychology courses offered at Arden University.

Our psychology courses are delivered online or via blended learning and are accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the Association for Business Psychology (ABP).

Discover the broad range of blended and online psychology courses at Arden University today.

FAQs

How does university education contribute to building confidence?

One of the benefits of university education is the increase in confidence you can gain. Throughout a degree, you will receive regular feedback, develop communication skills, achieve your professional and personal goals and gain technical knowledge, which builds confidence.

What psychological benefits can students gain from higher education?

You can benefit from increased motivation, confidence and purpose after completing a university degree. This leads to psychological benefits such as increased optimism and an overall positive outlook on life.

Can education impact a person’s career success and opportunities?

One of the main benefits of university education is career progression. Many students pursue a degree to gain the skills and knowledge to advance their careers and succeed professionally.

How do cognitive skills developed at university contribute to personal growth?

Cognitive skills gained during a university degree, including problem-solving and critical thinking, are transferable to everyday life and can help you navigate personal and professional challenges. Our emphasis on lifelong learning provides a platform for you to develop these skills and succeed inside and outside the classroom.

What role do student experiences play in building confidence through education?

Student experiences play a big role in developing confidence for university students. Studying in a supportive learning environment can create a safe space for you to share ideas and contribute to classes without the fear of failure. Networking, workshops and extracurricular activities all support the development of confidence during education.