The Confidence Shortcut

The Confidence Shortcut (Even If You Doubt Yourself)

If you’ve ever thought, “When I have the confidence I will….,” just fill in the blank with any dream or goal you have, you’re not alone. Most people believe confidence is something they have to wait for—as if one day it will just magically appear.

But the truth is, confidence isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you practice.

Your Brain on Change: It’s Normal to Doubt Yourself

Every time you step outside your comfort zone—whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, asking for a raise, or introducing yourself in a room full of strangers—your brain sounds the alarm. Fear and self-doubt kick in, not because you’re unqualified or incapable, but because your brain is wired to protect you and it does this by trying to keep you the same.

So, when you try something new, your brain unleashes a waterfall of negative thoughts:

❌ “Who do you think you are?”

❌ “You’re going to mess this up.”

❌ “This isn’t for you.”

And then, as if on cue, fear and self-doubt creep in, pushing you back to safety—your comfort zone. Not because you can’t do it, but because your brain resists change to keep you safe even if what you just moments ago were inspired to do is good for you.

So, you quite and then you believe you’re a quitter, a failure that you start things and never finish but really its just your brain on change.

Psychologists call this negativity bias—we’re wired to focus more on potential threats than positive outcomes. That’s why even though 85% of what we worry about never happens, we still hesitate.

But here’s the trick: That fear? It’s not a stop sign. It’s proof you’re about to do something brave.

Confidence is a Skill, Not a Trait

Think of confidence like a muscle. You don’t wake up one day with strong biceps—you build them by lifting weights. Confidence works the same way. You build it by doing small, uncomfortable things daily until they no longer feel uncomfortable. You learn to override your brain on change.

This is a common human experience its normal

If you wait until you feel confident before taking action, you’ll be waiting forever. Instead, take action first—confidence will follow.

Start Practicing Today: The 7-Day Confidence Challenge

Want a shortcut to confidence? Stop thinking about it and start practicing. Follow the simple actions in each day of the challenge below:

1. Put Your Hand Up First – In a meeting, in class, in a group setting—be the first to contribute. The faster you act, the less time your brain has to talk you out of it.

2. Sit at the Front – Whether it’s a meeting or a conference, always take the front seat. Confident people put themselves in prime positions.

3. Make Eye Contact for 3 Seconds – When you enter a room, look people in the eye. It signals confidence (and it helps you connect with others and for them to feel acknowledged)

4. Ask a Question – Next time you’re in a discussion, ask a question. It shows engagement and builds presence.

5. Give a Compliment – Confident people lift others up. Compliment a colleague or a stranger and notice how it changes your energy.

6. Stand Tall – Your posture affects your mindset. Shoulders back, chin up—your brain will follow your body’s lead.

7. Say “I’ll Do It” – Volunteer for a task before you’re ready. Growth happens when you commit first and figure it out after.

Confidence Comes from Doing

Stop waiting to feel ready.

Start small.

Do it scared. (fear is normal)

Confidence isn’t about eliminating fear—it’s about acting despite it.

And remember there is nothing wrong with you this is normal the problem isn’t that you’re not confident the problem is that no one teaches us that this is common human experience.

Confidence follows action. You don’t wait until you ‘feel ready’—you take action, and confidence grows. You practice just like you would any other skill.

Most people overestimate others and underestimate themselves. You’re more capable than you think—the problem is, you believe your doubts more than your skills.

When you show up like a leader, people treat you like one. Your posture, voice, and how you engage in meetings all send a message.

Your Next Step

Send me a DM and let me know which challenge was your favorite! I’d love to hear and if you let me share them it helps other people so we know we're not alone.

You can repeat this challenge over and over and watch your confidence grow.

I believe in you!

Tammy

P.S. Ready to fast-track your confidence at work? My 12 Ways to Win at Work program gives you the exact strategies to own the room, speak with authority, and finally get noticed for what you bring to the table. training@iamworthitproject.com