{"id":60207,"date":"2025-05-06T09:54:22","date_gmt":"2025-05-06T09:54:22","guid":{"rendered":"\/av6hxi5\/what-to-do-when-youve-lost-your-confidence-as-a-leader\/"},"modified":"2026-01-13T15:00:23","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T15:00:23","slug":"what-to-do-when-youve-lost-your-confidence-as-a-leader","status":"publish","type":"product-content","link":"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/av6hxi5\/what-to-do-when-youve-lost-your-confidence-as-a-leader\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do When You\u2019ve Lost Your Confidence as a Leader"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p><div class=\"ew-note\" data-type=\"default\"><div class=\"ew-note-body\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Takeaways:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<ul><li><strong>Even CEOs doubt themselves. <\/strong>Confidence wavers at every level \u2013 even at the top. Recognizing this can normalize self-doubt and help leaders to bounce back faster.<\/li><li><strong>Confidence is a skill, not a trait. <\/strong>Confidence isn\u2019t fixed: it\u2019s rebuilt through reflection, self-compassion, feedback, and intentional action.<\/li><li><strong>Lead through the low points. <\/strong>You don\u2019t need full confidence to lead well. Grounded, honest leadership builds trust, even during personal uncertainty.<\/li><li><strong>Inner work fuels outer impact. <\/strong>Managing mindset, naming emotions, and practicing emotional agility strengthen resilience and leadership effectiveness long term.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><p>\u201cVery few people get into the seat and believe that they are now qualified to be the CEO. They&#8217;re not going to tell you that, but it&#8217;s true.\u201d [1]<\/p><p>That\u2019s Howard Schultz, former Starbucks CEO, naming what few admit out loud: the private doubt that creeps in even at the top. Or, indeed, <strong>especially<\/strong> at the top.<\/p><p>Such moments are more common than you might think. One study found that 71 percent of CEOs experience <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"azio7m7\/impostor-syndrome\" href=\"\/azio7m7\/impostor-syndrome\" target=\"_blank\">Impostor Syndrome<\/a> (compared to 33 percent of early-stage professionals). [2]<\/p><p>Confidence isn\u2019t linear. It ebbs and flows with pressure, uncertainty, and self-talk. And in this article, we\u2019ll explore how to recognize what\u2019s knocked your confidence and provide some practical steps you can take to steady yourself if your self-belief slips.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How and Why Confidence Takes a Hit<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>Confidence in leadership is shaped not just by outcomes (for example, projects delivered, budgets met, stakeholders satisfied), but also by context (how much pressure you\u2019re under, who\u2019s watching, how safe it feels to show doubt).<\/p><p>You can be performing well, hitting your targets, and reaping praise, yet still feel unsure of yourself. This wobble is often triggered by subtle, cumulative pressures. Some common culprits include:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Imposter syndrome<\/strong>. You\u2019re leading a high-stakes initiative but suddenly questioning if you\u2019re the right person for the job.<\/li><li><strong>Public scrutiny<\/strong>. A keynote speech falls flat, or you&#8217;re unexpectedly challenged in a big meeting and the moment sticks.<\/li><li><strong>Role transitions<\/strong>: A dream promotion lands, but you\u2019re struggling to find your feet.<\/li><li><strong>Burnout<\/strong>. Months at full tilt have left you drained and doubting decisions that once felt instinctive.<\/li><li><strong>Loss of control<\/strong>. Your decision is overridden, or the market shifts unexpectedly, leaving you in reactionary mode.<\/li><li><strong>Feedback spirals<\/strong>. Even constructive feedback starts to chip away at how you see yourself.<\/li><li><strong>Team or culture shifts<\/strong>. A key person leaves, morale dips, and you start to internalize the cracks.<\/li><li><strong>Identity shifts<\/strong>. Life stage changes or personal transitions unsettle your sense of self.<\/li><li><strong>Personal upheaval<\/strong>. A health issue, relationship strain, or caring load makes it harder to feel steady, let alone confident.<\/li><\/ul><p>These aren\u2019t unusual leadership challenges, but because few talk about them, it can feel like you\u2019re the only one who\u2019s off balance.<\/p><p>And sometimes, there\u2019s no clear trigger, just a quiet slide into self-doubt that\u2019s easy to miss and hard to shift. Whatever its cause, let\u2019s explore some practical strategies that can get you back on track.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Inner Work: Rebuilding Belief From the Inside Out<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>When confidence wobbles, notice your inner voice. In low moments, it often turns critical, but that voice is stress talking, not truth. So:<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Dial Up the Self-Compassion<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Professor Dr Kristin Neff identifies three pillars of self-compassion that can interrupt negative self-talk: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. [3]<\/p><p>Here\u2019s a practical breakdown of how they work:<\/p><div><div class=\"ew-table\"><div><div class=\"ew-table-title\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Self-Compassion: What It Looks Like Versus What It Doesn\u2019t<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div><table><thead><tr><th><p><strong>Element<\/strong><\/p><\/th><th><p><strong>Practicing Self-Compassion<\/strong><\/p><\/th><th><p><strong>The Opposite Response<\/strong><\/p><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><p>Self-Kindness<\/p><\/td><td><p>Treating yourself with kindness, as you would a friend.<\/p><\/td><td><p>Being self-critical or dismissive of your struggles.<\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p>Common Humanity<\/p><\/td><td><p>Knowing you&#8217;re not alone in your challenges.<\/p><\/td><td><p>Feeling isolated or like it\u2019s just you.<\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p>Mindfulness<\/p><\/td><td><p>Noticing emotions without exaggerating or ignoring them.<\/p><\/td><td><p>Getting overwhelmed or shutting feelings down.<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div><p>If you\u2019re often in the right-hand column, it\u2019s a sign to build your self-compassion.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gather the Data<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Revisit feedback, past wins, or ask a trusted peer what they see in you. It\u2019s not about boosting ego but grounding yourself in facts.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Reframe Setbacks as Learning<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Psychologist <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/asbakxx\/dwecks-fixed-and-growth-mindsets\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/asbakxx\/dwecks-fixed-and-growth-mindsets\" target=\"_blank\">Carol Dweck\u2019s growth mindset concept<\/a> reminds us that abilities aren\u2019t fixed but developed through effort. [4]<\/p><p>This perspective is embraced by leaders like Accenture CEO Julie Sweet, who puts continuous learning at the heart of both her personal brand and company culture, including hiring.<\/p><p>As part of Accenture\u2019s recruitment process, every candidate is asked, \u201cWhat have you learned in the last six months?\u201d to identify those committed to ongoing development. [5]<\/p><p>When something knocks your confidence, try not to see it as a verdict on your leadership. Instead, ask yourself, \u201cWhat can I take from this?\u201d That small shift can make a big difference to how quickly you bounce back.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Borrow Someone Else\u2019s Belief in You<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>If your confidence needs a quick pick-me-up or you\u2019re just not in the mood for loads of psychological unpacking, try this instead: show up as the version of you that someone else believes in.<\/p><p>Maybe it\u2019s your line manager, your partner, or a mentee who looks up to you. Step into their version of your leadership for a while. Sometimes \u201cfaking it\u201d is just rehearsal and before long, you may find you\u2019ve grown into it.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When All Else Fails<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Come back to your purpose. When outcomes feel uncertain and self-belief is shaky, your values and long-term vision are your most reliable anchors.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Outer Work: Leading When Your Confidence Is Low<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz also said, \u201cOne of the fundamental aspects of leadership is the ability to instill confidence in others when you yourself are feeling insecure.\u201d [6]<\/p><p>That\u2019s not about pretending but staying grounded enough to steady others, while you work privately on restoring your own confidence.<\/p><p>Leaders who acknowledge struggles are often seen as more authentic and relatable, which can <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/aqdolgk\/building-trust-inside-your-team\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/aqdolgk\/building-trust-inside-your-team\" target=\"_blank\">strengthen team trust<\/a> and engagement. But be careful not to overshare. [7]<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Uncertainty Masquerading as Low Confidence?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>It\u2019s easy to take a dip in confidence at face value, but sometimes what you\u2019re really dealing with is a lack of clarity.<\/p><p>A few simple check-ins can help you spot what\u2019s really going on and steady yourself with practical action.<\/p><div><div class=\"ew-table\"><div><div class=\"ew-table-title\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Practical Confidence-Building Plan<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n<\/div><\/div><table><thead><tr><th><p><strong>Focus Area<\/strong><\/p><\/th><th><p><strong>Prompt<\/strong><\/p><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><p>Action<\/p><\/td><td><p>What\u2019s one small, visible win I can get this week?<\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p>Communication<\/p><\/td><td><p>What\u2019s a conversation I\u2019ve been avoiding that could bring clarity?<\/p><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><p>Self-belief<\/p><\/td><td><p>What\u2019s one strength I can lean into that reminds me, \u201cI\u2019ve got this?\u201d<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Confidence and Resilience Go Hand-in-Hand<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>Confidence is easier to rebuild when you\u2019ve laid the groundwork in steadier times. <br\/>Psychologist Susan David describes \u201cemotional agility\u201d as the ability to face emotions (especially doubt), courageously and constructively.<\/p><p>Instead of ignoring discomfort or being ruled by it, agile leaders pause, name what they\u2019re feeling, and choose their next step with intention. [8]<\/p><p>A short daily check-in (asking, \u201cWhat\u2019s going on for me right now?\u201d) can quickly strengthen that muscle.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Other Long-Term Habits That Support Confident Leadership<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>Try these approaches to help build resilience and restore your confidence levels:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Reflect regularly. <\/strong>Notice what\u2019s working (and why) to stay grounded when things get tough.<\/li><li><strong>Prioritize sleep. <\/strong>Fatigue messes with perspective. A good wind-down routine might be the most underrated leadership tool you have.<\/li><li><strong>Keep learning. <\/strong>Even a short burst of micro-learning (like an <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/podcast\/pain-points\/#:~:text=Pain%20Points%20is%20a%20brand,as%20a%20manager%20and%20leader.\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/podcast\/pain-points\/#:~:text=Pain%20Points%20is%20a%20brand,as%20a%20manager%20and%20leader.\" target=\"_blank\">episode of the Mindtools podcast Pain Points<\/a>) can stop your mindset and confidence from stalling.<\/li><li><strong>Ask for feedback. <\/strong>Regular input builds trust and helps feedback feel normal rather than personal.<\/li><li><strong>Identity-based confidence. <\/strong>When results are uncertain, focus on the bigger picture \u2013 your unique <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/a7m23wp\/leadership-styles\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mindtools.com\/a7m23wp\/leadership-styles\" target=\"_blank\">leadership style<\/a> and the qualities you consistently bring, even in challenging moments.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What\u2019s Worth Remembering<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>When your self-esteem is suffering, it\u2019s good to remind yourself that:<\/p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>A dip in confidence is not a sign of failure; it simply means you\u2019re human.<\/li><li>Even the most experienced leaders question themselves. You\u2019re in good company.<\/li><li>Confidence isn\u2019t permanent; it\u2019s something you practice, lose and rebuild over and over.<\/li><li>Your self-belief doesn\u2019t need to be at full strength all the time; just solid enough at its lowest ebb to act with intention and reconnect with the leader you already are.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Confidence Is a Practice, Not a Trait<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p>When and if you feel your self-belief falling away, remember that confidence is dynamic; it can be rebuilt.<\/p><p>And it\u2019s not that leaders can never waver, they learn to lead themselves through it.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Do confident leaders ever feel insecure?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Yes. 71 percent of CEOs experience impostor syndrome. Confidence is not constant; even top leaders face self-doubt.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What causes confidence dips in leadership?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Triggers include public setbacks, burnout, role changes, feedback, and personal stressors \u2013 often subtle but cumulative.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How can I rebuild confidence at work?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Use self-compassion, reframe setbacks as learning, reflect on past wins, and act with purpose even when unsure.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can I lead effectively without full confidence?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p>Absolutely. Honest, grounded leadership builds trust \u2013 even when you\u2019re still working through your own doubts.<\/p><div class=\"ew-reference\"><span class=\"ew-reference-title\">References<\/span><div class=\"ew-reference-body\"><div>[1] Vozza, S. (2017). <em>It&#8217;s Not Just You: These Super Successful People Suffer From Imposter Syndrome <\/em>[online]. Available <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.fastcompany.com\/40447089\/its-not-just-you-these-super-successful-people-suffer-from-imposter-syndrome\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fastcompany.com\/40447089\/its-not-just-you-these-super-successful-people-suffer-from-imposter-syndrome\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>. [Accessed May 1,  2025].<\/div><div>[2] Korn Ferry, (2024). <em>71% of U.S. CEOs experience Imposter Syndrome [online]. <\/em>Available <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.kornferry.com\/about-us\/press\/71percent-of-us-ceos-experience-imposter-syndrome-new-korn-ferry-research-finds\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kornferry.com\/about-us\/press\/71percent-of-us-ceos-experience-imposter-syndrome-new-korn-ferry-research-finds\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>. [Accessed May 1, 2025].\u200b<\/div><div>[3] Neff, K. (n.d.). <em>The elements of self-compassion <\/em>[online]. Available <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/self-compassion.org\/what-is-self-compassion\/\" href=\"https:\/\/self-compassion.org\/what-is-self-compassion\/\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>. [Accessed May 1, 2025].<\/div><div>[4] Dweck, C. (2006). &#8216;Mindset: The New Psychology of Success,&#8217; New York: Random House.<\/div><div>[5] IMD, (2023). <em>Julie Sweet: why it pays to never stop learning<\/em> [online]. Available <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.imd.org\/ibyimd\/videos\/head-learner-julie-sweets-leadership-lessons\/\" href=\"https:\/\/www.imd.org\/ibyimd\/videos\/head-learner-julie-sweets-leadership-lessons\/\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>. [Accessed May 1, 2025].<\/div><div>[6] Schultz, H. (1997). &#8216;Pour Your Heart Into It: How Starbucks Built a Company One Cup at a Time,&#8217; New York: Hyperion.<\/div><div>[7] Allen, S. (2023). <em>Leaders, Don\u2019t Be Afraid to Admit Your Flaws<\/em> [online]. Available <a class=\"ew-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/insight.kellogg.northwestern.edu\/article\/leaders-dont-be-afraid-to-admit-your-flaws\" href=\"https:\/\/insight.kellogg.northwestern.edu\/article\/leaders-dont-be-afraid-to-admit-your-flaws\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>. [Accessed May 1, 2025].<\/div><div>[8] David, S. (2016). &#8216;Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life,&#8217;<em> <\/em>New York: Avery.<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Even top leaders face self-doubt. Learn practical strategies to rebuild confidence, lead authentically, and thrive through uncertainty with emotional agility and purpose.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"product-content-category":[7074],"product-content-type":[2580],"reading-time":[5177],"class_list":["post-60207","product-content","type-product-content","status-publish","hentry","product-content-category-self-confidence-assertiveness","product-content-type-article","reading-time-7-minutes"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What to Do When You\u2019ve Lost Your Confidence as a Leader - Mindtools<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Even top leaders face self-doubt. 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