posted 12th December 2025
Confidence is something we all want. It’s the fuel that helps us take on challenges, step into new spaces and perform under pressure. But confidence isn’t something you can buy or download. It’s built through experience by exposing yourself, feeling uncomfortable and pushing beyond what feels safe.
I was reminded of this recently at my first international competition, in a sport I only discovered in my 40s. Standing alongside athletes far more experienced and physically stronger than me, was humbling. When I thanked the head coach for selecting me, his response was simple: “You’ve earned it.” That moment, coupled with placing fourth in my category and contributing to a team gold medal, lit a spark.
From Individual to Team
The sport I compete in is usually seen as individual. But this time, the focus was on the team. Success wasn’t just about where I finished; it was about how my performance contributed to the bigger picture.
That shift changes everything. In a team environment, egos get in the way. Discipline, respect for the rules and trust in each other matter more than individual accolades. Sacrifices are necessary because it’s not just about you; it’s about the greater good.
It’s the same in leadership. Strong cultures emerge when individuals park their egos and focus on collective success.
Facing Imposter Syndrome
In the lead-up to the event, there is no doubt that imposter syndrome crept in. Am I good enough? Do I really belong here?
What grounded me were my values of Strength & Integrity and the people around me. Being surrounded and supported by teammates with strong mindsets made all the difference. Their discipline and encouragement reminded me that confidence is rarely built in isolation.
Leaders experience the same thing. When taking on new responsibilities or stepping into difficult conversations, self-doubt is common. Staying anchored to your values, drawing strength and experience from those around you, keeps you focused.
The Courage to Say Yes
When the invite to represent GB came through, my instinct was to hesitate. But saying yes changed everything.
That single (brave) decision gave me the confidence to compete, but it’s also given me confidence in my ability to push further in the future. Sometimes courage comes first; confidence follows after.
Taking on a new role, delivering difficult feedback or speaking up for what you believe in, requires courage before confidence. Over time, those moments accumulate into a belief in your own capability.
Five Takeaways for Work and Life
The lessons that I took from the competition, linking it to the workplace, are:
- Stay true to your values – they keep you steady when doubts creep in.
- Prioritise the team – individual brilliance means little without collective success.
- Respect and discipline matter – rules, boundaries and self-control build trust.
- Have courage before confidence – say yes to the opportunity, then grow into it.
- Surround yourself with the right people – strong mindsets fuel your own resilience.
Final Reflection
The experience has increased my confidence not just for the next competition, but in how I approach challenges day to day. It was a reminder that confidence isn’t a given; it’s earned through courage, discipline and staying grounded in your values.
Whether it’s having a tough conversation, leading a project, or guiding a team through change, the principles remain the same at work.
Do something your future self will thank you for and something your younger self never thought you’d be doing.
