They are regularly accused of being too confident – even cocky – but the highest achievers are more often than not those who over-rate their ability.

Now researchers believe they have discovered, for the first time, why humans have a false sense of optimism.

Computer led simulations have shown that overconfidence in all aspects of life can often improve your chances of winning.

For many years scientists have been divided over whether overconfidence is a good or bad thing and why it existed.

‘There hasn't been a good explanation for why we are overconfident, and this new model offers a kind of evolutionary logic for that. It's unlikely to be an accident—we're perhaps overconfident for a good reason,’ said Dr Dominic Johnson of the University of Edinburgh.

Sprinter Usain Bolt is famed for his relaxed and confident approach to performing, as was ‘the greatest’ boxer Muhammad Ali.

But there is a word of warning for anyone thinks they could be faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, or able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.

Positive self-delusion can also cause problems and lead to wrong decision making, unrealistic expectations, danger and failure.

(Read by Christine Mallari. Christine Mallari is a journalist at the China Daily Website.)

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(Agencies)