Build Unshakable Confidence in Yourself

Dear Empowered Women, 

Did you know that according to a study by the Institute of Leadership & Management, 50% of female managers report experiencing self-doubt compared to just 31% of their male counterparts?

This statistic reveals a significant confidence gap that many aspiring female leaders face, often hindering their career progression.

Have you met Emily?

Let me introduce you to Emily (name changed for privacy), a mid-level manager in the technology industry. During our coaching sessions, Emily shared her struggles with speaking up in meetings. Despite her qualifications and expertise, she often doubted her abilities, fearing her contributions wouldn’t be valued. Together, we crafted a plan focusing on preparation, practicing her communication skills, and actively seeking feedback.

Emily’s journey required hard work, time, consistency, and dedication. She meticulously prepared for each meeting, rehearsed her points, and consistently sought constructive feedback from her colleagues and superiors. This feedback highlighted her strengths and areas for improvement, helping her refine her approach.

Over several months, Emily’s efforts began to show results. Her confidence grew, and she noticed a positive change in how her contributions were received. Colleagues began to seek her insights, and she became a more influential voice within her team. Reflecting on her transformation, Emily shared, “It was a challenging journey, but with consistent effort and the support of my peers, I’ve gained a newfound confidence. Now, I feel empowered to share my ideas, knowing they are valued.”

Emily’s Strategies, Which You Can Apply:

 1. Self-Awareness and Reflection: Emily regularly assessed her strengths and areas for improvement. By understanding her unique capabilities, she could leverage her strengths and work on her weaknesses.

 2. Setting Realistic Goals: She set achievable goals, breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This approach helped her track progress and build confidence gradually.

 3. Seeking Feedback and Mentorship: Emily consistently sought feedback from her colleagues and superiors. This not only provided her with valuable insights but also built a support network that encouraged her growth.

 4. Embracing Failures as Learning Opportunities: Rather than fearing failure, Emily viewed it as a learning experience. This mindset shift helped her become more resilient and confident.

 5. Positive Affirmations and Visualization: Emily practiced positive affirmations and visualized her success. This helped reframe her mindset and reinforce her belief in her capabilities.

Take Action:

This week, choose one of Emily’s strategies to implement in your own life. For example, start by setting realistic goals and breaking them down into actionable steps. Reflect on your progress and celebrate small wins along the way.

Let me close off this article with one quote: 

“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” — Maya Angelou


I'm rooting for your success.

Nina