The Psychology of Confidence
- Sanjana Boddupalli
- Oct 28
- 2 min read
What is Confidence?
For starters, confidence isn’t a special trait that only some people are born with. Psychologists describe confidence as a belief in your own ability to succeed at a specific task. This means that confidence isn’t something that you always have without a doubt. You might feel extremely confident about how you cooked dinner, but you also feel super nervous about a presentation you have to give. It shifts depending on the situation. However, the good news is that it’s situational. Confidence is something you can build slowly over time. The more you train your confidence, the stronger it gets.
The Science of Believing Yourself
Let's talk about brain science. There is a concept called the self-fulfilling prophecy that says that when you believe you can succeed, you are more likely to put in the work, dedication, and stick with it. This belief alone increases your chances of success, which then reinforces your confidence.
On the other hand, when you tell yourself "I'm gonna mess this up”, you start holding back, overthinking, or avoiding the challenge all together. That makes failure more likely, which lowers your self-confidence. So whatever you tell yourself really matters.
Body Language is also a big part of your self-confidence. Researchers found that simply adopting a “power pose” which is basically standing tall with your shoulders back, and taking up space can actually make you feel more confident because it shifts your hormone levels. Your body can trick your brain into feeling more confident.
Now What Are Some Practical Ways to Boost Confidence?
Reframe Your Self-Talk- Instead of saying “I can’t do this,” try “I’m learning how to do this.” That small shift reduces pressure and increases persistence.
Visualize Success- By imagining yourself succeeding, your brain practices the experience ahead of time, making you calmer and more prepared when it’s real.
Take Small Wins Seriously- Every time you follow through on something - even tiny tasks- your brain registers as proof that you’re capable. Those small wins stack up and create a foundation of confidence.
Use Your Body- Stand tall, breathe deeply, and make eye contact. Not only do others perceive you as more confident, but your brain catches up and starts to believe it too.
Confidence isn’t about being fearless. It’s about understanding that nerves are normal but choosing to believe in yourself anyway. Science shows us that confidence grows through action. Science shows us that confidence grows through action, mindset, and even body language.
Try something new every week. Whether it's raising your hand in class or speaking up at work, trying something new and applying these strategies. Watch how these simple habits can help you build up that spark of confidence over time.
Stand tall, believe in yourself, and keep building that confidence muscle.
Sanjana Boddupalli, Bentonville, AR, 9th Grade, Instagram - @sanjubodd
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