As a longtime woman entrepreneur, I know firsthand that confidence can make or break a business. I’ve been in rooms where I was the only woman at the table, second-guessed myself when making tough decisions, and even undervalued my own work. Sound familiar?
The truth is, confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t, it’s something you build, practice, and strengthen over time. And as women, we have to be intentional about growing our confidence because, let’s be honest, the world isn’t always set up to hand it to us.
If you’ve ever struggled with confidence as a businesswoman, here are real, actionable ways to step into your power:
1. Speak with Authority—Even When You Doubt Yourself
Confidence isn’t about never feeling insecure. It’s about choosing to show up powerfully, even when doubt creeps in.
- Speak clearly and avoid diminishing words like “just”, “I think”, or “sorry” when they aren’t necessary.
- If you don’t know something, own it—then follow up with a solution.
Try this: Before important meetings, practice your key points out loud. This will help you sound more confident and self-assured.
2. Stop Over-Apologizing
Women tend to apologize more than men in business, even when they haven’t done anything wrong. While politeness is great, excessive apologizing weakens your authority.
- Instead of “Sorry for the delay,” try “Thank you for your patience.”
- Instead of “Sorry, can I add something?” try “I’d like to contribute here.”
Try this: Go a full day without apologizing unless it’s truly necessary. You’ll be surprised how much stronger you feel!
3. Dress the Part, Feel the Part
How you present yourself affects how you feel about yourself. I’m not saying you need to wear a power suit every day, but wearing clothes that make you feel strong and put-together will shift your mindset.
Try this: Have a “power outfit” for important business meetings—one that makes you feel like the boss you are.
4. Get Comfortable With Discomfort
Confidence grows when you push yourself beyond your comfort zone. If you never take up space, ask for the sale, or pitch your ideas, you’ll never build the muscle of showing up boldly.
Try this: Say yes to something that scares you this week—whether it’s public speaking, pitching a big client, or raising your prices.
5. Know Your Numbers & Own Your Value
Women often undervalue their work and hesitate to charge what they’re worth. If you don’t confidently state your prices and know your numbers inside out, people will question your authority.
Try this: When discussing pricing or negotiations, say your number and pause—don’t justify or undervalue yourself!
6. Surround Yourself with Power Players
Your environment shapes your confidence. If you spend time with people who inspire and challenge you, you’ll naturally rise to their level.
Try this: Join a mastermind, attend womenpreneur networking events, or find a mentor who embodies the confidence you admire.
7. Reframe Failures as Lessons
Every entrepreneur faces setbacks. The key difference? Confident women don’t take failure personally. Instead of thinking, “I’m not good enough,” try, “What can I learn from this?”
Try this: Write down your biggest business “failures” and list at least one thing you learned from each. This will shift your mindset toward resilience.
8. Stand Your Ground—Even When It’s Uncomfortable
Being the boss means making tough decisions. Not everyone will like you, and that’s okay. Confidence means being respected over being liked.
Try this: The next time you feel pressured to say yes when you want to say no, pause and respond with confidence, not guilt.
9. Celebrate Your Wins—Even the Small Ones
We’re so focused on the next goal that we forget to acknowledge how far we’ve come. Every success, no matter how small, builds confidence.
Try this: Keep a “Confidence Journal” and write down your wins every week—it’s proof that you’re killing it!
10. Own Your Story
Your journey, your struggles, and your experiences make you unique. Instead of comparing yourself to others, own your path and trust that you bring something special to the table.
Try this: Write a short paragraph about why your story matters in business. This will remind you that your journey is your superpower.
Confidence is a Choice
Every day, you have the choice to step into your power. Confidence isn’t about being fearless, it’s about acting despite the fear. You already have what it takes; now it’s time to show the world.
Now, tell me—what’s ONE confidence-building tip that has worked for you?
