The Confidence Gap: How to Own Your Worth in Your Career
Have you ever hesitated to speak up in a meeting, doubted whether you were ready for a promotion, or held back from negotiating your salary? You’re not alone. Research shows that women often underestimate their abilities compared to men. This confidence gap isn’t about a lack of skill. It’s about believing in yourself and owning your worth.
I remember a friend who was overqualified for a leadership role but hesitated to apply. She thought she needed just a little more experience. Meanwhile, a male colleague with fewer qualifications applied without a second thought and got the job. It was a wake-up call. Confidence, not just competence, plays a huge role in career growth.
How to Build Your Career Confidence
✅ Recognize Your Strengths
Think about everything you have accomplished so far. Keep a list of your wins, big and small. Seeing your progress will remind you of how capable you truly are.
✅ Quiet the Self-Doubt
That little voice in your head that says you are not ready? Challenge it. Instead of thinking you are not qualified, try reminding yourself that you are constantly learning and growing.
✅ Take More Risks
Growth happens when you push yourself beyond what feels comfortable. Say yes to new opportunities, even if they scare you a little.
✅ Use Feedback to Grow
Constructive criticism is not a reflection of your worth. It is a tool to help you improve. Seek feedback, learn from it, and use it to become even better.
✅ Surround Yourself with the Right People
A strong network of mentors, colleagues, and friends who believe in you can make all the difference. Find those who lift you up and remind you of your value.
Final Thoughts
Confidence is not something you are born with. It is something you build, step by step. The more you push past doubt and step into your power, the more you will see just how capable you are. You do not have to wait until you feel 100 percent ready because chances are, you already are.
Would love to hear from you. What is one time you pushed past self-doubt and surprised yourself? 💬
Building confidence comes from taking action, even when you feel unsure. It is not about having all the answers but about trusting yourself to figure things out along the way. Every step forward strengthens your belief in your own abilities. Keep pushing yourself, embrace new challenges, and recognize that you are more capable than you think.
Kerry Rizzo