The Gift of Borrowed Confidence

Confidence isn’t always built from the inside out. Sometimes it’s sparked from the outside in.

Think about a time when someone believed in you before you fully believed in yourself. A boss who told you that you were ready for more.

A parent who said, “I know you can do this.” A colleague who reminded you of your strengths. Their belief became the bridge to your own confidence.

That’s what borrowed confidence is.

Your encouragement and certainty can give someone else the courage to take a step they might not take alone—or to jump in even when they don’t feel fully ready.

And it doesn’t have to be something big. It could be asking an employee to try a new sales technique or encouraging a colleague to try something they haven’t done before.

It could also be outside of work. Nudging your child to join a new activity or reminding a friend they’re more ready than they think to face a challenge.

The right words can nudge someone past hesitation and into growth.

Here are three ways to give others confidence:

1. Explain why they can do it. Be specific about their skills or qualities that make them capable. Vague encouragement doesn’t stick, but clear reasons do.

2. Remind them of past wins. Point to times they’ve succeeded before. Showing a track record makes the next step feel achievable.

3. Share a relatable story. Explain how someone like them, such as a peer, colleague, or even you, has done it successfully. Real examples show it’s possible.

What if this week you looked for one person who could use borrowed confidence—and gave them yours?

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FAQs About Building and Borrowing Confidence

• 1. What does it mean to borrow confidence?

  Borrowing confidence means leaning on someone else’s belief in you until you build your own. Encouragement from a leader, colleague, or family member can spark the courage to act before you feel fully certain.ption text goes here

• 2. Can you really give someone else confidence?

  Yes. While confidence is internal, it can be influenced externally. Clear reasons why they can succeed, reminders of past wins, and stories of others who’ve done it can all build belief.

• 3. Why is confidence important at work?

  Confidence drives action. Employees who believe in themselves are more willing to try new tasks, take on responsibility, and engage customers with energy.

• 4. How can leaders build confidence in their teams?

  Leaders can build confidence by setting clear expectations, celebrating progress, and showing belief in their people’s potential. Simple words of support can create powerful results.

• 5. Can confidence be built outside of work?

  Absolutely. Parents, partners, and friends often help each other by offering encouragement and belief. Confidence carries over into school, sports, relationships, and personal goals.