Your three step guide to improving your self-confidence at work

Self-confidence is the difference between staying stuck in our comfort zone or progressing towards our true potential. Ask yourself, have you heard yourself saying any of these statements…“I’d love to do that, but its not for me” , “I need another qualification before I do that” , “I’m not ready yet, maybe in another year or two” or “I should know this by now, everyone else is more on top of things” - You’re not alone, these are real life examples from high achieving women I’ve worked with. Women who on paper, know they look like they have it all together, but quietly doubt themselves behind the scene. 

These thoughts often translate into holding back in meetings, not applying for promotions or exciting projects, over-preparing and burning out, downplaying expertise to others and waiting for ‘perfect’ before taking action. 

Now imagine a day at work where you feel confident, self-assured - you’re able to take action and make decisions with ease, share your ideas without fear and throw yourself into opportunities that align with you and move your career forward.  

But here’s the truth: confidence doesn’t appear overnight. It’s built through building our self-awareness, consistent action, and a willingness to celebrate progress rather than perfection. If you’ve ever felt held back by self-doubt or negative self-talk, these are my three best practical steps you can take to start strengthening your self confidence. Enjoy! 

1. Notice Your Thoughts

Awareness - pay attention to the moments when your inner critic shows up. Are you telling yourself you’re not ready, not qualified, or not good enough? 

Write these thoughts down. By noticing and recording them, you’ll start to see patterns — and which goals they’re quietly sabotaging. Awareness will give you the power to change them.

2. Replace Negative Self-Talk with Positive Beliefs

The way we speak to ourselves shapes how we feel and how we feel directly influences what we do. If your inner voice is constantly saying “I can’t do that” your natural response is hesitation and avoidance. 

But when you consciously shift that inner dialogue to something supportive, you change your emotional state. Instead of fear and doubt you create feelings of capability and motivation. 

Next time you hear your inner critic and write it down, then practice replacing those negative statements with more empowering ones. For example:

• “I don’t know enough” becomes “I’m learning and growing every day.”

• “I’m not ready” becomes “I already have the skills to take the next step.”

I want you to write these statements down, say them out loud too. Then notice the difference in how you feel, in how you show up. 

3. Set Small, Achievable Confidence Goals

Building confidence is like planting seeds. The results won’t appear straight away, but imagine each small action is a seed. With consistency and care, those seeds grow into something strong and lasting. 

The same applies to confidence at work. Start by identifying one small goal that stretches you just a little outside your comfort zone — whether it’s speaking up once in a meeting, volunteering for a small project, or sharing an idea with your manager. Then build it up a little further each time. Each win builds momentum, and that momentum builds confidence. 

Progress Over Perfection

It’s important to remember that nobody starts as the expert. Mistakes are not a sign of failure, but a normal part of growth, so if it doesn’t feel linear, remember it isn’t meant to. Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on recognising and celebrating the small wins along the way. 

Final Thoughts

Confidence is not something you’re either born with or without. It’s a skill that can be developed with intention, awareness, and practice. By noticing your inner dialogue, replacing negative self-talk and setting small achievable goals, you can create real, sustainable shifts in how you show up at work.

When you do, you’ll find yourself taking more effortless action, feeling more comfortable in your abilities, and ultimately moving closer to the career success and fulfilment you deserve.

If this helped at all, let me know, I’d love to hear your results! 

Shannon x