The Confidence Advantage: Why Self-Belief Is a Woman Entrepreneur’s Greatest Asset
Self-confidence plays a vital role in the development of any entrepreneur. It influences the decisions we make, the risks we take, and ultimately the path we choose to follow.
When we step into entrepreneurship, we willingly place ourselves in a space of vulnerability. We
are challenged mentally and emotionally. Our abilities are questioned, our strengths and weaknesses are exposed, and we are often thrust into competitive and overwhelming situations
we have never faced before.
Starting a business, building experience, managing a team, and attracting customers are all part
of the entrepreneurial journey. Yet, when we first begin, we rarely know what to expect. When
things don’t go as planned, and they often won’t, disappointment can creep in. Over time, these
setbacks can chip away at our confidence, causing us to become increasingly critical of ourselves
and the world around us. Left unchecked, this loss of confidence can keep us stuck and prevent
us from moving forward.
The good news is that confidence can be built, intentionally and consistently.
Here are 10 practical ways to strengthen your confidence and support both your professional and personal success:
1. Treat yourself the way you treat your friends, encourage yourself, celebrate progress, and support your own goals.
2. Keep trying. Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of it.
3. Trust your gut. Your intuition is often wiser than you think.
4. Take action. If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you’ll keep getting the same results, change requires movement.
5. Show up with confidence and self-assurance, while remaining open to listening and learning from others.
6. Take responsibility for your actions and avoid the blame game.
7. Make a point to smile and say hello to at least one new person each day.
8. Be honest with yourself, own your strengths and ask for help where you need it.
9. Keep learning. Expanding your knowledge builds both competence and confidence.
10. If something doesn’t work, try again, and again. Don’t accept defeat. Believe in yourself.
Commit to building your confidence and self-image today. When you look the part, sound the
part, and act the part, success begins to follow in every area of your life.
“No one can make you feel inferior without your permission.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
