I love the notion of Bella Figura, something I got out of one of the many novels about Italy by Morris West. Bella Figura is the notion of having an elegant posture to any outcome, regardless of whether it’s unfavorable or favorable. It’s analogous to being a good sportsman or sportswoman, who congratulates the winner on her win, even though we might have preferred to win ourselves.

Bella Figura is about handling losses with the same aplomb as a win, and also being a graceful winner, who doesn’t gloat about their win in a way that creates unnecessary hostility in the loser.

Confidence is about asking for what you want, and having a bella figura regardless of the responses you get.