Being comfortable being different

Jenni Catron Aug. 3, 2023

my saved content

VIEW AS
A PDF

Adobe Stock

As women, it's no secret that we often struggle with confidence in the workplace. In fact, a staggering 79% of women lack confidence at work, according to recent statistics. Many brilliant minds have attempted to uncover the reasons behind this disheartening reality. However, rather than dwelling on the comparisons between genders, it's time for us to embrace our unique gifts and strengths and show up confidently, regardless of who is in the room.

Let's explore five steps that will help us show up more confidently in any setting.

1. Develop a healthy understanding of confidence:

Before we can exude confidence, we must first define what it means to us individually. Confidence is not about bravado or arrogance; instead, it is the "purity of action that emerges from a mind free of doubt" as defined by Katty Kay & Claire Shipman in their book,The Confidence Code. It is the unwavering belief in your God-given abilities and the trust we have in ourselves to tackle challenges head-on.

Take a moment to reflect on what confidence means to you personally. What does it look like in your life? Equally important is recognizing what confidence is not. Shed the misconceptions that equate confidence with perfection or comparing yourself to others. Embrace the freedom of being authentically you.

2. Know and own your strengths:

You possess unique gifts and talents that are purposefully different from those around you. Consider this: What if the very reason you are in the room is to offer a distinct perspective? You bring a valuable viewpoint that others may lack, and that could be precisely what your team needs to thrive.

My favorite scripture, Galatians 6:4-5 (The Message), reminds us to make a careful exploration of who we are and the work we have been given, sinking ourselves into it. It advises against being impressed with ourselves or comparing ourselves with others. Each of us has the responsibility to make the most of our own lives and contribute our creative best to the world.

3. Root your confidence in your values:

Identify the deep convictions that guide your life and work. What matters most to you? For me, healthy leadership and fostering a positive team culture are essential values. When we anchor our confidence in our values, we find the strength to advocate for what we believe in, regardless of the opinions or expectations of others.

4. Release the need to please:

Leadership is not a popularity contest. Our role is not solely to make people happy but to help them grow and improve. Think back to moments in your life when you experienced significant personal growth. Chances are, it was because someone cared enough to challenge you and push you to be your best self. As leaders, we carry the responsibility to provide that same guidance and support to others.

5. Own your style:

Confidence blossoms when we step outside our comfort zones and pursue goals aligned with our own values and needs. Caroline Miller, author and psychologist, wisely states that confidence comes from working towards goals determined by ourselves, not society's expectations. Embrace your unique style, unleash your creativity, and let your true self shine.

In conclusion, Catherine of Siena once said, "Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire." As women in the professional world, we must strive to be comfortable being different. By embracing our unique gifts and strengths, rooting our confidence in our values, releasing the need to please, and owning our style, we can confidently show up in any room, ready to make a positive impact.

This article was first published on get4sight.com. Used with permission.

my saved content

VIEW AS
A PDF

Jenni Catron is a writer, speaker, and leadership coach who consults churches and non-profits to help them lead from their extraordinary best. As Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she consults with individuals and teams on leadership and organizational health. Learn More »

• Why does the term "social justice" divide so many? (by Chris Bolinger)
• The power of unity: a testament to prayer, worship, and God's Word (by Christopher Beth)
• A 3-pronged response to the lawlessness of our age (by Rob Streetman)
• Racial healing or reopening? How to do both well (by Bob Whitesel)

Free eBook

Success Unlocked: The Transformative Power of Questions

This isn’t just another leadership book—it’s your invitation to discover how Christ-centered questions can transform the way you lead and live. Packed with real stories and timeless wisdom, it shows you how to grow your influence, deepen your faith, and lead with the same life-changing impact Jesus did.

Download Now