Self-acquired competency refers to the skills and knowledge that we develop on our own, outside of formal education or training. We often gain these competencies through hands-on experience, self-study, and personal exploration.
Self-acquired competency is becoming more and more important as technology; modes of communication and other aspects of life evolve faster and more frequently.
Now, more than ever, we need to be able to adapt, innovate, and master new skills to succeed in both our personal and professional lives.
Today, we discuss self-acquired competency, its role in personal development and career growth, and practical strategies for fostering and leveraging this valuable asset.
***This is the latest post in a series devoted to self-esteem. The first post in the series is Self-Esteem: What You Need to Know and Secrets Revealed. ***
How to Develop Self-Acquired Competency
“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” – Sharon Salzberg
Self-acquired competency is one of many components of self-esteem.
It plays a vital role in our personal development and overall well-being. When we actively acquire and develop new skills, knowledge, and abilities, we bolster our self-esteem and unlock our potential for success.
There is a powerful connection between self-acquired competency and self-esteem, so let’s explore strategies for fostering both.
Understanding Self-Acquired Competency
Self-acquired competency refers to the intentional and continuous process of acquiring new skills, knowledge, and abilities through personal effort, independent learning and dedication.
It is the outcome of proactive personal growth, driven by curiosity, self-motivation, and a relentless thirst for knowledge.
This invaluable set of competencies is often developed outside of formal educational institutions or traditional training environments.
It involves taking responsibility for our own growth and actively seeking out opportunities to learn and improve.
Examples of self-acquired competencies include:
Coding and Programming Languages: Many technology professionals and software developers acquire their coding skills through self-study, online courses, tutorials, and projects. They harness their innate curiosity to explore different programming languages like Python, Java, or HTML, enhancing their competency without formal academic training.
Foreign Language Proficiency: Learning a foreign language can greatly enhance a person’s personal and professional life. While some achieve fluency through formal language classes, others develop their language skills through self-guided study using books, language learning apps, podcasts, and online resources.
Digital Marketing Expertise: With the rise of digital platforms, individuals interested in digital marketing often acquire their skills through self-study. They explore search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, content creation, and analytics by actively engaging in online communities, following industry blogs, and experimenting with their own digital marketing campaigns.
Entrepreneurship and Business Skills: Many successful entrepreneurs develop their competencies through practical experience, trial and error, self-study, and learning from mentors or business networks. They acquire a diverse set of skills including strategic planning, marketing, finance, and negotiation without relying solely on formal business degrees.
Project Management: Project management skills, essential in various industries, can be honed through self-acquired competency. Through reading books, attending webinars, participating in online forums, and taking advantage of project management software, people gain the ability to effectively manage time, resources, and stakeholders.
Self-acquired competencies are not limited to professional skills.
They can also include personal development areas such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
As an aside, organizations and employers increasingly recognize the value of self-acquired competencies.
These continuous self-improvement efforts demonstrate a person’s motivation, drive, and adaptability to leverage new opportunities and address challenges.
As our world continues to change rapidly, the ability to acquire new competencies independently will continue to become even more critical for personal growth and career success.
The Impact on Self-Esteem
As we acquire new competencies, we develop a sense of mastery and self-assurance.
Each new skill or area of expertise we acquire strengthens our belief in our abilities, leading to increased self-esteem.
The process of acquiring competence requires stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing challenges.
As we overcome obstacles and achieve success, our self-esteem grows. This helps us develop pride and confidence in our abilities.
Acquiring competencies helps us challenge and overcome self-doubt and fear.
By demonstrating our capability in various areas, we break down limiting beliefs. This allows us to replace them with a positive self-perception.
Acquiring new competencies equips us with the skills and knowledge we need to face adversity and bounce back from setbacks.
This resilience contributes to a stronger sense of self-esteem, as we trust in our ability to navigate life’s challenges.
Strategies to Foster Self-Acquired Competency
- Reflect on your strengths and areas where you wish to enhance your skills. Focus on building competencies in these areas to foster a sense of accomplishment and bolster self-esteem.
- Break down larger goals into smaller, attainable milestones. Each accomplishment will boost your confidence and reinforce your belief in your ability to learn and grow.
- Adopt a mindset that views challenges and failures as learning opportunities. Believe in your capacity for growth and improvement. Recognize that acquiring competency is a journey, and setbacks are a natural part of the process.
- Seek out opportunities for growth and learning. Enroll in courses, attend workshops, identify a mentor or role model, read books, or engage in online learning platforms.
- Practice is key to refining your skills and abilities and obtaining feedback is fundamental to acquiring competency and building self-esteem.
How to Develop Self-Acquired Competency and Improve Self-Esteem
Acquiring competence through personal effort and dedication enhances our skills and knowledge and also strengthens our self-esteem.
By actively seeking out opportunities to learn and grow, we build a deep sense of self-assurance, mastery, and resilience.
As we overcome challenges, break through self-doubt, and achieve success, our self-esteem flourishes, and we unlock our potential for a fulfilling and empowered life.
Seize the power of self-acquired competency to fuel your self-esteem and to help you soar to new heights of personal growth and success.
You may also wish to explore the wonders of mind-body awareness and how it helps both our physical and mental health. Let us know what you think!
For a comprehensive overview of self-esteem and self-worth, visit Self-Esteem Activities: How to Rediscover Self-Worth Now.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Joan’s career includes clinical healthcare plus 20+ years as an executive in a nationwide health care system and 15 years as a consultant. The common threads throughout Joan’s personal and professional life are a commitment to non-profit organizations, mental health, compassionate coaching, professional development and servant leadership. Joan has had the privilege of mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. She is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is also a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me. You can read more about Joan here: Joan Senio.
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