Have you ever hesitated to apply for a promotion because you didn’t feel “ready”? Or held back from speaking up in a meeting, even though you had a great idea? You’re not alone.
Confidence is often referred to as a key ingredient for success, yet research consistently shows that women, even at the highest levels, tend to underestimate their abilities compared to their male counterparts. This phenomenon, often called the confidence gap, leads many capable women to hesitate before applying for promotions, speaking up in meetings, or taking on leadership roles.
But here’s the good news: confidence is a skill, not an inherent trait - and like any skill, it can be developed. In this post, we’ll explore why women often experience the confidence gap and actionable strategies to bridge it.
Why Does the Confidence Gap Exist?
Several societal and psychological factors contribute to the confidence gap:
◾ Perfectionism: Women tend to feel they must meet 100% of the criteria before going for an opportunity, whereas men apply when they meet just 60%.
◾ Social Conditioning: From an early age, girls are often encouraged to be "nice," whereas boys are encouraged to take risks.
◾ Fear of Failure: Many women hesitate to put themselves forward due to fear of judgment or making mistakes.
How to Close the Confidence Gap & Step into Your Power
◾ Reframe Failure as Growth
Failure isn’t a sign of incompetence – it is a sign of learning. Challenge negative self-talk by viewing setbacks as opportunities to grow.
◾ Adopt a "Why Not Me?" Mindset
Instead of questioning whether you’re good enough, ask, "Why NOT me?" If someone else can do it, why not you?
◾ Take Action Before You Feel Ready
Confidence doesn’t come first - action does. Apply for the role, speak up in meetings, take the leadership opportunity. You don’t need to “feel ready” - you just need to start!
◾ Practice Self-Validation
Instead of waiting for external approval, recognise and celebrate your own achievements. Keep a "wins journal" where you record your successes, big or small.
◾ Seek Support & Mentorship
Surround yourself with mentors and a network of like-minded women who uplift and encourage you.
◾ Choose Courage Over Comfort
Confidence comes after action, not before. Take the leap and step outside of your comfort zone, even if you feel unsure - your confidence will grow through experience.
◾ Invest in Leadership Coaching
Coaching accelerates confidence. An experienced leadership coach will help you recognise your strengths, shift limiting beliefs and develop a success mindset.
Understanding The Confidence Gap – Why Women Hold Back & How to Step Forward is key to helping women overcome self-doubt and take bold steps toward achieving their goals. Remember that bridging the confidence gap isn’t about becoming someone you are not – it is about owning who you already are.
Ready to start stepping outside your comfort zone? Book a free clarity call with me today and take the first step toward your personal and professional development goals!