What Workplace Challenges Taught Me About Confidence

I once worked under a former manager who never believed in me—or at least, that’s how it felt. He criticized my work unfairly, highlighted my mistakes instead of offering guidance, and made it clear that my efforts weren’t enough in his eyes.

At one point, he even mocked me as “Miss Congeniality.” It was personal, unprofessional, and unnecessary. But I refused to let comments like that define me or shake my confidence. Instead, I focused on what I could control: staying professional, grounded, and true to myself—which, in my humble opinion, can put anybody in a more powerful position.

Staying Human

Through it all, I stayed human. I showed up, did my best, and stayed focused on the value I brought to the role. I didn’t let the criticism or personal nature of the situation affect how I saw myself. Instead, I used the experience to reflect—not just on leadership and workplaces, but on myself and the kind of environment I wanted to thrive in.

What I realised was simple: maintaining your professionalism, no matter the circumstances, is one of the strongest positions you can take.

Lessons Learned

1. Your Value Is Non-Negotiable: Criticism doesn’t define you—your response to it does. Staying grounded in your strengths and focusing on what you know you bring to the table is key.
2. Choosing Not to Fight Is Strength: Not every battle is worth engaging in. By refusing to fight back in the same way, you maintain your integrity and show that their negativity doesn’t control you.
3. Every Experience Has a Lesson: Even difficult situations can teach us something. For me, it clarified the kind of environment I thrive in and the qualities I value in leadership—respect, empathy, and support.

Moving Forward

This experience taught me to prioritise environments where respect and support are the norm, not the exception. It also reaffirmed that staying true to your values—no matter the circumstances—is the best way to move forward.

I share this story because I know many have faced similar challenges. If you’ve been in a tough workplace situation, remember: you’re not defined by one person’s opinion. Confidence (which, for me, could be considered a skill) comes from within—and sometimes, it comes from choosing to walk away stronger than before.

A Call to Reflect

What lessons have challenging situations taught you about leadership, workplaces, or even yourself? Let’s start a conversation about turning difficulties into opportunities for growth.