The Challenge Component

A common characteristic of humans is that we tend to think we are normal; therefore, people who are similar to us are normal, as well. Your boss likely has a comfort level with high Challenge individuals because she understands them and that style is more familiar to her. This often comes up in hiring situations. We hire a person who is similar to us because it is more comfortable, when in actuality we would benefit from a style that complements, not mimics, our own style. Like all of the Birkman Components, Challenge has to do with perception. The way you see yourself and the way you believe others see you is vital because it affects your behavior, your thinking and how you relate to others.

The Challenge Component has the ability to really skew one’s perception of what behavior is right (good behavior) and what behavior is wrong (bad behavior). That makes the Challenge score especially critical and makes awareness of your own score and understanding of the possible negative side effects so important.

Challenge can be thought of as a person’s self-image. For the purposes of the article, self-image is the mental picture a person holds about himself based on the attributes the person has learned about himself either through personal experiences or by internalizing the judgments of others. In a sense, the Challenge score is answering this question, “How do you believe others see you?”

The fascinating thing about the Challenge score is that your self-image can be very different from how the world actually sees you. Some people seem to have it all (intelligence, looks, personal and financial success) and yet may have a critical self-image. Conversely, others who have had a very difficult life and multiple hardships may have a very positive self-image.

As you reach either end of the Challenge spectrum, these descriptions should ring true:

High Challenge individuals are more self-critical. They can underestimate their capabilities and feel less confident about their personality, skills and intentions in life.

Examples:
– I’m not living up to my full potential.
– I receive positive performance reviews but I know I could do a much better job. – I’m not doing everything I could to be the best parent.

These detracting thoughts are an internalization of how the individual believes other people see them. Their outlook is cemented in the belief that people don’t have an overly positive view of them.

Low Challenge individuals are less critical of themselves. They have an air and confidence about them that can come off as charisma to others. They feel good about their personality and they have a comfortable awareness and confidence in the things they do well.

Examples:
– Generally, I feel most people like me.
– I feel confident in my abilities and I know what I’m good at.
– My company is pleased with my work and that is what really matters.

Again, these affirming self-thoughts are an internalization of how the individual believes other people see him or her. Their outlook is grounded in the belief that others people see them in a positive light.

As is true with all of the Birkman Components, one score is no better than another; it is simply a difference in style. Both are important and both have associated advantages and disadvantages. For example, sometimes having an occasional negative thought or criticism about oneself can encourage change, hard work, growth and success; however, when not managed, high Challenge individuals can underestimate their capabilities and lose confidence. High Challenge works against us when we downplay our abilities and avoid activities even when, in reality, we are far better than many other individuals at that particular activity.

The positive self-talk that is a result of being low Challenge does wonders for our confidence. If we tell you we can do something, you better believe we are going to knock your socks off.; however, those with low Challenge may overvalue or emphasize others’ impressions of them. At times, a person with low Challenge may come across as overly confident or even arrogant. Regardless of your score, what is important is finding the balance between feeling positive about yourself and having realistic goals.