Do you need a boost in self-confidence? Is it affecting the way you lead? A lack of self-confidence can lead leaders to second-guess themselves, which can ripple through the organization, stifling progress. When leaders doubt their abilities, it can cause their team to lose trust and hope, leading to a cascade of issues.

The first step in building self-confidence is becoming aware of your feelings. By recognizing and naming them as they arise, you can begin to understand their causes—which are often less daunting than they seem. Remember, you’ve reached your current position by navigating challenges. Setbacks haven’t destroyed you; they’ve made you stronger and more resilient. Envision yourself confidently tackling the complexities of your role, as you have done before, to regain that sense of confidence.

Understanding the motives behind your actions can also be incredibly empowering. As Citigroup Managing Director Chinwe Esimai suggests in Great Leadership Starts with Self-Awareness (Forbes, 2018), when your motives are honorable and aligned with your values, you’re more likely to experience successful outcomes. By examining your intentions and observing how others respond to your direction, you can start building self-confidence. Here are some strategies to help you in this journey:

1. Look for Patterns in Feedback
   Pay attention to how people respond to your actions. If their responses are unfavorable, see it as an opportunity to make adjustments and learn. Positive feedback from your team can be a powerful fear suppressor.
2. Seek Guidance from Trusted Advisors
   Supplement the feedback you receive with insights from a trusted colleague, mentor, or coach. Embrace humility, be open to learning, and remain committed to self-improvement. Criticism can become an invaluable tool for advancing your career.
3. View Feedback as a Tool for Growth
   Humans are wired to avoid discomfort, which sometimes means shying away from feedback. But when you view constructive criticism as a free lesson in self-development, it becomes easier to embrace.
4. Adopt a Healthier Perspective on Leadership
   In Leading with Emotional Courage (2018), Peter Bregman advocates for “mastering irrelevancy.” This means taking yourself off-center stage and placing your team there instead. Shifting focus away from yourself can bring a sense of freedom and significantly reduce your fears. When you step back, you can lead with more confidence, knowing you’re empowering those around you.

All great leaders have learned the most through their mistakes. Improvements may come with a short-term cost, but the long-term gains are invaluable. By confronting your fears and building self-confidence, you can transform not only your leadership style but also the entire culture of your organization.

Are you ready to lead with clarity and confidence? Book a complimentary 30-minute call with me to explore how Simply Lead Coaching can support your leadership journey.