Creating Confidence from Scratch

If there’s one trait that most people wish they had more of, it’s confidence. It’s often seen as the key to success, whether you’re looking to excel in your career, improve your relationships, or simply feel good about yourself. But here’s the truth about confidence: it’s not something you’re born with—it’s something you build.

And the number one way to build it? By taking uncomfortable action.

Why Confidence Comes From Action, Not Thoughts

Most of us believe we need to “feel” confident before we act. We think, "If I just had more confidence, I’d finally go for that promotion, start that side business, or speak up in that meeting." But in reality, confidence isn’t a prerequisite for action—it’s the result of action.

Every time you take a step outside of your comfort zone, even if you’re unsure of yourself, you show your brain that you can handle the discomfort. This builds trust in yourself, and with each uncomfortable action you take, that trust grows, leading to stronger confidence.

The Fear Trap: Why We Avoid Taking Uncomfortable Action

Let’s be real—taking uncomfortable action is hard. It’s so tempting to stay in your comfort zone where everything is predictable, even if you feel stuck or unsatisfied. You might tell yourself things like, "What if I fail?" or "What will people think?" But these fears are just stories we create to protect ourselves from the unknown.

The secret? You have to act despite the fear. Confidence isn’t about eliminating fear—it’s about doing the thing anyway, knowing that the fear will fade over time.

Taking the First Step: Embracing Discomfort

So how can you start building confidence by taking uncomfortable action? The key is to start small. You don’t need to quit your job tomorrow or give a speech to a thousand people. Begin by pushing your boundaries in tiny, manageable ways that still make you feel a little uncomfortable.

Here are a few examples:

• Speak up in a meeting even if you’re unsure of your idea.

• Wear that bold outfit you’ve been too afraid to try.

• Sign up for a class or event where you don’t know anyone.

• Set a boundary in a relationship where you’ve been avoiding conflict.

  
  

It’s these small actions, taken consistently, that build the muscle of confidence over time. Each time you step into discomfort, you’ll learn that it’s not as scary as you thought, and you’ll become more willing to take bigger leaps in the future.

The Magic of Momentum

Once you start taking these small uncomfortable actions, you’ll notice something amazing: momentum. Every small win builds on the last, and before you know it, you’re tackling bigger and bolder challenges with greater ease. This momentum creates a snowball effect, where your confidence becomes self-sustaining.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one takeaway from this post, it’s this: confidence doesn’t magically appear. It’s built through action—specifically, uncomfortable action. So the next time you feel that familiar tug of fear or hesitation, take it as a sign that you’re on the edge of growth. That’s your moment to act. Remember, confidence doesn’t come from waiting for the right moment—it comes from creating it.

xo, Sofia Edlund