Full disclosure: I am not, nor have I ever been, a young professional. When I picture a young professional, I picture someone around the age of 21 who just graduated college and has a zestful drive to start their career. They look and talk like they have their act together, with their earnest smiles and steady eye contact, eagerly showing off accolades and robust portfolios.

Essentially, this static image I’ve associated with the term “young professional” would prove to be perfect fodder for a lifelong imposter syndrome; with this image in mind I would never be young enough, eager enough, or accomplished enough to feel confident.

While young professionals like this certainly exist, I’ve since learned that comparing yourself to others or idealizing particular identities is not the way to build true, lasting confidence. In fact, it will make you feel worse. Imitating confident people you admire is a great way to project the image of a confident person (and sometimes the adage “fake it until you make it” can be useful), but instead of being someone else, wouldn’t you rather be the best version of yourself?

Over my past 19 years of work experience, I’ve learned a lot about building confidence, but it is a practice, not a one-and-done process. If you’re ready to invest in this fundamental practice–a powerful investment in yourself!–read on for steps to building authentic confidence as a young professional, no matter your age or profession.

1. Try New Things

If you take nothing else away from this list, take this: in both your personal and professional life, you exercise your confidence muscles by taking on challenges. This can be particularly effective when you try things just outside of your comfort zone. For example, I joined a community Bocce league to make new friends even though I knew almost nothing about the game and am historically not very good at sports.

This has been a huge boon to my confidence while still being approachable (Bocce is a pretty laid-back game). It takes courage to let yourself be vulnerable in front of others, to fumble, to make mistakes, and to depend on the support of a team. And if your confidence is low, a healthy dose of courage is just what you need.

This works in nearly every area of life, so ask someone out on a date, do some volunteering, try a food that looks kind of weird, and watch your confidence grow.

2. Do Not Self-Reject

It’s a tired saying, but you’ll never build your confidence if you don’t put yourself out there. That phrase “put yourself out there” used to make me cringe in fear and want to hide under the covers, but with practice it does get easier. You have nothing to lose by applying for that job you’re not sure you’re qualified for, or going for that promotion knowing you’ll be up against senior employees.

The worst case scenario is that you’ll be where you are right now, but with a raised frequency–kudos, you’re showing up on someone’s radar!–and a slightly more built-up resilience. This is especially important if you are in pursuit of a career where rejection is a common part of the process successful people must go through, such as acting or writing.

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3. Journal (or record) Frequently

Regularly spend a little time in reflection and write or talk your thoughts out via journal, video, or whichever medium you prefer. You can use this as a way to track progress, muse over possibilities and ideas, or ponder lessons you’ve learned. If you have trouble thinking of what you want to say, you can search for prompts to inspire you or make a list of things you are grateful for.

Setting aside time for introspection is not only a healthy way to live and grow but can help you untangle and make sense of factors that are impacting your confidence level, such as burnout, boredom, or fear. To avoid slipping into rumination and inaction, stick to a specific amount of allotted time to do this, such as 15 minutes per day or one hour per week.

S4. Repeat Mantras and/or Affirmations Regularly

THEY. REALLY. WORK. The key is to actually believe them when you say them (whether you do this aloud, in your head, or even in writing). Personally, bland phrases such as “I am strong/beautiful/etc” never really resonated with me, but once I found more specific mantras that targeted my areas of insecurity, my mindset truly began to change. Here are a few of my favorites:

I can do hard things.
This world is here for me.
Money flows to and from me easily.

There are hundreds of books and guided meditations to draw inspiration from, so do some exploring to find mantras or affirmations that feel right for you.

5. Remember: Confidence Isn’t The Same As Egotism

I have always dreaded cover letters, interviews, and anything else where I have to “sell myself”. Unfortunately, there are situations where being humble is actually a disservice to you and others. If, like me, you feel uncomfortable touting your accomplishments and cringe at the thought of appearing arrogant, you are not alone.

But picture it from the other person’s point of view: would you trust someone who is low-energy, self-deprecating, and unsure to show up, complete projects on time, and do their best work? Self-confidence does not mean you have a big ego; rather, it shows that you care.

Bonus Tip: While this list focuses on things you can do on your own, do not feel you have to do it all on your own. Lean on the invaluable support of friends, mentors, coaches, and anyone else who encourages you and supports your growth.

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Meet The Writer!

Hi! My name is Liz Ebenhoh and I am a literacy tutor, editor, and writer with an extensive work history in library services and nonprofits. I have been an avid reader and writer since I was a child, and as an adult have focused on helping and supporting others and using my words for good. I am passionate about all things equity, education, and wellness–never stop learning and growing! :) Connect with me on my website and/or LinkedIn.

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5 Steps To Building Confidence As A Young Professional