It’s Time to Get Real About Confidence

Let’s get one thing straight:
Confidence isn’t just a feeling—it’s a perception.

It’s what people pick up on in the way you enter a room, speak your mind, and carry yourself in difficult conversations. But here’s the catch: even powerful, capable women sometimes undermine their authority—without realizing it.

Whether it’s in the boardroom, a client meeting, or your next big opportunity, how you communicate your confidence matters.

So let’s break it down. Here are 5 subtle habits to ditch right now if you want to be taken seriously, own your space, and show up with calm, assertive power.

1. Stop Over-Apologizing

We’ve all been there:

• “Sorry, quick question…”

• “Sorry I didn’t respond sooner…”

These tiny apologies might feel polite—but they send a message of unnecessary guilt or insecurity. They soften your authority before you’ve even made your point.

Try this instead:

• “Thanks for your patience.”

• “Let me jump in.”

• “Here’s my perspective.”

Gratitude leads. Confidence follows.

2. Stop Using Minimizing Language

Phrases like:

• “I’m just wondering…”

• “This might be a dumb question, but…”

These kinds of openers shrink your ideas before anyone’s had a chance to hear them.

Say it with clarity:

• Instead of “I think we should…”

• Say: “We should do this because…”

Your ideas are strong. Let your words reflect that.

3. Stop Smiling to Soften Every Statement

Smiling is powerful—it’s warm, it’s approachable. But if you’re using it as a default—especially when delivering feedback or asserting a boundary—it can undercut your message.

In serious or high-stakes moments, let your expression match your intent. Stay neutral. Let your words lead, not your smile.

4. Stop Seeking Constant Validation

Phrases like:

• “Does that make sense?”

• “What do you think?” (after every suggestion)

They can sound like you’re second-guessing yourself—even if you’re not. And when used too often, they invite doubt.

Shift to statements like:

• “Let me know if you’d like more detail.”

• “Here’s what I propose.”

Confidence isn’t about asking for permission—it’s about offering clarity.

5. Stop Shrinking Your Presence—Physically and Verbally

You don’t just speak confidence. You show it.

That means:

• No more hunching over your laptop in meetings.

• No more fast, quiet talking that rushes through your points.

Instead:

• Sit tall.

• Make eye contact.

• Speak slowly and with intention.

Let your physical presence match the power of your message.

Quick Recap: 5 Habits to Break Today

1. Over-apologizing

2. Minimizing your language

3. Smiling in serious moments

4. Constantly seeking validation

5. Shrinking your physical and vocal presence

Final Word

Confidence isn’t about being loud or aggressive. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being clear, present, and unapologetically you.

Pick one habit from this list. Shift it today.
You’ll feel the difference—and so will everyone around you.

If this resonated, share it with a friend. Subscribe for more.
And remember—join the talk, join the transformation.