#hpd - Confidence - How To Improve It

Confidence can feel like a puzzle at times. Some days it’s natural, other days it hides. This week on the podcast, we’re looking at what confidence really is, why it’s tricky to pin down, and how dyslexic minds can learn to grow it.

We explore the basic building blocks of confidence, the ways dyslexics approach it differently, and the small steps you can take to feel more secure in who you are. If you’re someone who’s ever thought, “I just don’t have enough swagger to do this,” this episode is for you.

What is Confidence, Really?

Confidence is often described as that quiet sense in your gut telling you you’re capable. It’s less about being loud and proud, more about knowing what you stand for and backing yourself. But it isn’t always easy to define, especially because our brains like to layer on doubts.

One moment you might feel unstoppable, then next you can’t remember how you achieved anything in the first place. The podcast digs into how confidence is more of a skill than a magic trait you’re either born with or not.

“I have said it before: if neurotypical people are a PC, we are a Mac. Don’t load the wrong programme on your machine, right?”

Why It Feels Slippery

All humans struggle with confidence at times, but dyslexics often have extra baggage. School experiences, misunderstood labels, or battles with reading and writing can knock how we feel about ourselves. You might find you’re great at your job one minute, but worry about small mistakes the next.

This back-and-forth can leave you thinking, “Maybe I don’t have what it takes.” Yet confidence isn’t about never doubting yourself again. It’s about noticing those doubts, then steadily moving past them. When you see it that way, it becomes more of a constant process than a final destination.

Building Confidence When You’re Dyslexic

Everyone can build confidence, but if your brain is wired like a Mac, you need the right approaches to match. It’s not about forcing yourself into a one-size-fits-all formula but playing to your strengths and recognising where you thrive.

• Identify your superpowers. Maybe you’re a great storyteller or you spot patterns that others miss.
• Adjust your tools and environment. Find apps, speak-to-text software, or colleagues who complement your style.
• Celebrate little wins. Log them if needed. Each small success is proof you can do more than you think.

One of the biggest steps in building confidence is giving yourself permission to do things in a way that works for you, rather than how someone else says you “should” do them.

Tiny Steps to Embrace Your Own Power

Confidence doesn’t usually arrive in one grand moment. It’s a muscle you strengthen over time. Instead of trying to tackle a massive goal all at once, build it in layers. Notice what feels easy, then expand from there.

Here are a few ways you can start taking those first steps:

1. Reflect on your past wins. Even if they seem small, they’re fuel for your mindset.
2. Outer accountability helps. Talk to a friend, coach, or mentor. Ask them to remind you where you shine.
3. Practice self-compassion. When doubt creeps in, treat yourself how you’d treat a friend.
4. Test and learn. Pick a project where the stakes aren’t sky-high, and see how you handle it in small steps.

When you start working with confidence in baby steps, you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by the bumps along the way. It’s not magic—it’s just consistent, curious practice.

A Few Key Takeaways

• Confidence is more about trusting yourself than being loud.
• Dyslexic minds may need different tools. Embrace your Mac-like wiring.
• Small wins can be your best evidence that you’re more capable than you think.
• Refining your confidence is an ongoing process, not a final finish line.

If you want to hear these insights in more detail, the podcast episode is right at the top of this page. I share my own journey, plus easy ways to shift your mindset.

Looking for support stepping up at work or in your business? Click here to learn about our coaching programme. It could be the nudge you need to embrace your strengths and let your confidence flourish.