Ever noticed how a quick pep talk before a game can flip a switch in your head? Or how a deep breath and a “I got this” before a job interview gives you the boost you need (and sometimes helps you land the job?)

That’s confidence at work.

We talk a lot about confidence and for good reason. It’s the fuel that powers your next move, your best performance, your biggest comeback. It’s creating your own luck!

Confidence isn’t just a “nice-to-have” personality trait. It reduces stress, strengthens resilience, and makes it easier to stop overthinking. People with higher confidence are more likely to take risks, bounce back from setbacks, and seize opportunities that others might shy away from.

But here’s the real question: where does confidence come from, and how do you get more of it?

The American Psychological Association defines self-confidence as "a belief that one is capable of successfully meeting the demands of a task." That belief then fuels action. You believe you can, so you try and succeed. Or you keep trying until you do. 

Most people want more confidence in their daily lives whether it’s at work, in the gym, navigating relationships, or building personal projects. Truthfully, confidence doesn’t just show up – it’s something you can actively build. And the more you work on it, the luckier (and stronger) you get.

Here are a few practical ways to build more confidence in any area of your life:

1. Stop the Comparison

While comparing yourself to others is a natural human instinct, it can be crushing for self-confidence if you do it too often or compare the wrong things. When you catch yourself comparing, first understand that what you’re doing isn’t helpful. Then, remember all your victories and things you are grateful for in your life. Focusing on your own wins can help you prioritize those things rather than brutally comparing yourself to the person next to you. 

2. Positive Self Talk

With constant negative thinking or speaking, you can subconsciously start believing those things. Having self-compassion in your daily conversations sparks confidence to slowly grow. The next time you begin to think that you have no business speaking up in a meeting or that you are too out of shape to work out, remind yourself that your thoughts aren’t always accurate.

3. Set Realistic Goals

Confidence grows from achievement – but only if the goals you set are achievable. Start small and build up from there. Instead of aiming to run a marathon in a month, start with three runs a week. Instead of trying to master an entire skill overnight, break it down into steps. Every time you hit a goal, no matter how small, you prove to yourself that you can do hard things. 

4. Make Time for Things You’re Good At

It’s easy to get stuck in the grind of fixing weaknesses, but spending time on things you’re already good at can give your confidence a serious lift. Whether it’s cooking, problem-solving, or playing an instrument, leaning into your strengths reminds you that you are capable and talented. That energy carries into other areas of your life.

5. Do Things Outside Your Comfort Zone

The biggest confidence boosts come from doing things you once thought you couldn’t. Growth happens when you push boundaries. Start small: speak up once in a meeting, try a new workout, introduce yourself to someone new. Each time you stretch your limits, you prove to yourself that fear doesn’t control you.

Everyone struggles with confidence at some point. The good news? Confidence can be built, and these tips give you a starting point. Each small step (including shutting down negative self-talk, celebrating your wins, or stretching outside your comfort zone) stacks up over time. 

You are fully capable of doing hard things and creating the confidence you deserve. Keep pushing forward, and you won’t just get lucky: you’ll make your own luck.