Do you believe in the Galatea effect?

Don’t know what the Galatea effect is?

No worries. I only recently learned what it is and am now happy to share my knowledge with you.

The Galatea effect suggests that when we believe in our abilities to achieve a goal, the more likely we’ll be to achieve it.

It sounds straightforward and perhaps even an obvious statement. But an important one, nonetheless.

A quick side note. Notice the definition says more likely and not guaranteed, and it doesn’t provide a timeframe. So, essentially what it does is it increases the probability.

Believing in your ability to accomplish a goal doesn’t mean ignoring reality. For an exaggerated example. You might believe that you’re capable of performing a triple heart bypass, but if you have no training, then your odds are close to zero.

However, believing in yourself is one of the first steps to increasing your probability of achieving your goals. And yes, believing in yourself can be easier said than done, especially if you’re not used to doing so. It can require a practice of constant self-talk, quieting your internal voice of doubt, and reminding yourself that you are capable of accomplishing the goals you set for yourself.

If believing in yourself sounds to you a lot like faith, believing, and seeing the invisible, then you’re correct. Faith in yourself is a required ingredient in your progress.

So, now do you believe in the Galatea effect?

It’s, of course, a trick question.

If you don’t, then stop right here.

However, if you do, then double down on it. Remind yourself when you’re faced with challenges and obstacles that you do and always will believe and have faith in yourself.

P.S. Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed it, please share it with one person you love.