Definition
Self-efficacy is an individual's belief in their own capacity to execute specific behaviors and achieve particular goals in given situations. Introduced by psychologist Albert Bandura, self-efficacy is distinct from self-esteem (global sense of self-worth) — it is task and context specific. High self-efficacy in an area leads to greater effort, persistence, and ultimately higher performance in that domain.
In Coaching Context
Building self-efficacy is one of the most important outcomes of effective coaching. Coaches do this through several evidence-based strategies: setting achievable early wins that build confidence; helping clients recall past successes as evidence of capability; normalizing challenge as part of mastery; and encouraging clients to observe role models who have achieved similar goals. As clients build self-efficacy, they become more willing to attempt difficult things and more resilient when they encounter setbacks.
Why It Matters
Bandura's extensive research demonstrates that self-efficacy is one of the most powerful predictors of behavior, performance, and persistence. People with high self-efficacy set more challenging goals, work harder, persist longer in the face of obstacles, and recover more quickly from setbacks. The beliefs we hold about our capabilities are not just reflections of our past — they are powerful determinants of our future. Coaching directly addresses and strengthens these beliefs.