Confident leaders experience self-doubt, they just respond differently
Self-doubt doesn’t disappear with a new job title. It doesn’t fade just because you now have more responsibility.
And despite what you might think, even the most confident leaders still experience self-doubt. The difference is how they respond to it.
It’s human to doubt
Let’s be clear: self-doubt is a normal, human emotion.
It often shows up when we are pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone, doing something that matters, or something other people are relying on us for. In fact, many people feel it more keenly because they care deeply about doing things well.
So if you have ever found yourself quietly questioning your ability, wondering if you are “good enough”, or fearing being found out, know that this is a shared experience. It is far more common than most people realise.
Confidence is not the absence of self-doubt
One of the biggest myths about confidence is that it means never doubting yourself. But confident leaders know that confidence is not fixed. It's a skill that can be nurtured and strengthened.
They still hear the voice of doubt. The difference is in how they deal with it.
Instead of letting that inner voice take over, confident leaders:
Notice it, without judgement
Pause to explore what is really going on
Draw on their self-awareness, and previous experience to move forward with intention.
They have spent time understanding their values, strengths, and patterns. So when self-doubt shows up, it doesn’t derail them. It makes them pause and get intentional instead.
What makes the difference?
Responding differently does not mean being immune to pressure. It means learning to recognise what is yours to carry, and what is not. Confident leaders build internal validation by reflecting on what they know, rather than chasing external approval. They trust themselves to make considered decisions, and to adapt when needed.
They also recognise that growth and discomfort often come together. So rather than avoiding self-doubt, they develop the capacity to sit with it, reflect, and choose their next step with clarity.
You can respond differently too
You don’t need to wait until you feel completely sure of yourself to lead with impact. Confidence grows when you practise responding to doubt with awareness and self-compassion.
I support leaders through these exact moments. Not by trying to eliminate doubt, but by helping you build the skills to respond in a more intentional way. Whether you are leading a team, managing upwards, or working out your next move, you can do so with confidence and authenticity.
This work is not about being perfect. It’s about showing up with a stronger sense of who you are, even when you don’t feel 100% certain.
If you would like to learn more about how you can build your own confidence, and learn how to best respond to your self doubt then join Unstoppable Leaders, my group coaching leadership programme which will help you do just this, as well as so much more!
Book a call with me here to talk it through, or click here to read more!
