Grow your self-confidence in 2024

Confidence comes from feeling sure of yourself, your qualities, and your abilities. If you are sure, then you can promote and communicate that confidence to others.

While you may have the necessary skills and competencies to adequately perform your job, struggling with self-confidence can undermine your ability to leave a lasting impact and ultimately build influence.

Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence. -- Vince Lombardi

Here are some tips to grow your self-confidence:

1. Inventory Your Successes.

Do you keep a "kudos file?" I do. In fact, I have a physical one for the accolades I receive in the form of letters and note cards, and a digital one in my email. When I've done something impactful or meaningful and someone comments, shares, or notes it, I save it.

When my confidence flutters, I reflect on those notes and remind myself that I've made a difference to the people I'm serving. This builds confidence.

2. Enlist Allies.

Even at work, we need supporters, cheerleaders, and allies who'll have our back and lift us up. Do you have people you trust and who know what you're capable of? If not, find them.

Enlist them to remind you of the difference you make, the skills and talents you offer the team and company, and why you're valued at work. You might feel vulnerable the first few times you ask for this support, but it's needed.

3. Grow Your Skills.

While you were hired to perform specific functions, consider upskilling in areas that will build your confidence as well as your value to the company.

For example, learning effective communication skills, how to manage up and across within an organization, how to grow your influence and presence and other relevant soft skills can increase your confidence at work.

4. Check in with a Mentor.

Find a mentor to discuss your concerns with them. Let them know the times and circumstances that lead you to question your competency and feel less confident. Since your mentor is further along the path than you, they can help you navigate those situations and set yourself up for success.

5. Have an Honest Career Conversation.

There are many reasons for your self-confidence to wax and wane during your career. If you believe you've been hired into the wrong role, don't have the skills or training needed to do the job, lack supporting resources, or aren't happy with the work environment, discuss those challenges with your boss and see whether there's a solution to be found (before that conversation check my #LinkedInLearaning course "Having an honest career conversation with your boss")

Confidence is like a muscle and you need to exercise it to get it strong. - Lida Citroen

**Previously published in part on Military(dot)com