Self-confidence is the belief in your own abilities, skills, and judgment. It’s about trusting that you can handle challenges, make decisions, and take action, even when things are uncertain. It’s not about thinking you’re perfect or always right, but having faith in your ability to learn, adapt, and succeed.
In simple terms, self-confidence is the feeling that you can take on what life throws at you — whether it’s tackling a new project at work, giving a presentation, or navigating a tricky conversation. It’s the inner assurance that you can handle what comes your way, and that even if you don’t succeed at first, you can learn and try again.
Here are 4 simple actions you can take that will boost your self-confidence:
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Say ‘thank you’ more often
Saying ‘thank you’ is a great way to inspire confidence. It lifts our own mood and shifts our focus towards the positive elements of a situation. Switch ‘sorry I’m late’, to ‘thank you for your patience’. Instead of ‘sorry about that mistake’, try ‘thank you for helping us improve’.
Saying thank you also encourages confidence in other people we say it to. Reinforce the behaviours you want see in your team culture. Catch people doing the right thing and say thank you more often.
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No is empowering
Be clear about your priorities. Don’t explain, don’t complain, keep it simple and just say no. Focus and productivity boost confidence. It’s not what we say yes to, it all the non-essentials we say no to.
- Thank you for the invitation. Please accept my apologies, I won’t be able to make it.
- I’m unable to meet that deadline, how would next week work for you?
- I know someone that might be a good fit for that. I’ll email you their information.
- Another time might work.
- Sure, I can do that. Which of your other four projects would you like to put on the back burner?
For more ideas, check out this list of 99 Ways to Say No.
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Admit your own success
Confidence is an inside job. Reframe the story you’re telling yourself. Remind yourself of past examples when you persisted and overcame challenges. Honour your past successes. Own your ability to learn and adapt. Embrace new challenges with a growth mindset.
For more ideas, see the Tip Sheets on Dissolving Imposter Syndrome and Growth Mindset.
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Positive posture
Our body, brain and emotions are all connected. A closed or slumped over posture triggers stress reactions in the body. An open, upright posture releases positive confidence boosting hormones and neurotransmitters. Sit or stand up straight. Stretch your spine. Shoulders back. Lift your chin. Breath slowly and deeply. Smile. You’ve got this.
For more ideas, see Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk
Or 17 Ways to Eliminate Stress in 5, 10, and 30 Minutes (healthline.com)
Need to know more about how to boost self-confidence? Click here, and let’s talk…