Perspectives on Developing Confidence

It’s okay to be scared, often that’s a sign that you are pushing yourself towards greatness. However, it’s equally important to build up your confidence and we hope the conversations presented below can help provide some food for thought around how you can level up your confidence and self-esteem.

Regina Blohm

I developed my confidence and self-esteem by focusing on my strengths, learning from challenges, and stepping out of my comfort zone. SYLTBAR has played a significant role in this journey, as our brand challenges us every day. Surrounding myself with a positive team at SYLTBAR and practicing self-compassion have been essential. I set small, achievable goals and celebrate progress, which keeps me motivated, but I also dream big, which helps me stay patient and prepared. Staying aligned with my passions and prioritizing my health have also made a big difference. Being involved every day with a product that is 100% naturally produced and that I truly love makes everything feel easier to achieve. Read more>>

Mulang Zhu

I developed my confidence and self-esteem by consistently sharing my work with my family, friends, and the world. Imposter syndrome is definitely something many creatives, myself included, experience when they first start sharing their craft. I used to feel very vulnerable when releasing work that was so dear to me and something I was proud of, opening it up for the world to see, listen to, and provide feedback on. It’s almost like sharing your favorite candy, worrying that others might not like it. However, as I continued to release more music and develop my sound and skills as a composer, I became incredibly excited to share my work with the world and hear everyone’s reactions to it. Read more>>

Morgan Wright

I used to really struggle with this but I learned that confidence is having the courage to be who you are and do things your way in spite of what anyone else thinks. If people like me, cool, if they don’t, that’s fine too. Discovering who I am for me (my self development journey), really helped me get here. Read more>>

Prof. Levar Wilkerson

It took a long time to develop any kind of confidence. I did not grow up in a community that allowed me to be peaceful. I grew up in a area where we had to fight to defend ourselves, just to go to school. There used to be a TV show. Family matters. There was a character Steve erkel, a lot of people treated me the same way they treated him. Because I decided to keep my head in my books and study hard so I can make something of myself. But during that time, no one knew that I was studying boxing, karate, and martial arts Self-defense. Read more>>

Margaret To

Building confidence and self-esteem was always a challenge for me. From a timid kid in school who was too scared to raise my hand, to a young professional who feared public speaking and leadership roles, I often preferred to do the behind-the-scenes work and stay out of the spotlight. But my passion for film and design gradually pushed me out of my comfort zone. As my work gained recognition at film and design festivals, opportunities arose to share my journey with a wider audience. I have always enjoyed helping others, so turning my fear into energy for communication became a way to challenge my self-limiting beliefs—that I wasn’t good enough, or my story wasn’t worth sharing. I have gradually gained the confidence to share my experience and take on leadership roles in spaces where I feel passionate about—design, filmmaking, social impact, and climate activism. Read more>>

Stephanie Vermaas

Confidence and self-esteem didn’t come naturally to me—it’s something I’ve built over time through both personal and professional experiences. Growing up, I often doubted myself, but I learned that confidence is less about being perfect and more about taking action despite the fear. My first major leap was launching my own fashion brand. There were so many unknowns, but with every step, whether it was securing a manufacturer, landing my first wholesale order, or overcoming a setback, I realized I was more capable than I gave myself credit for. Read more>>

Ashley K

I watch a lot of motivational videos on social media and I also use self affirmations. Sometimes its challenging because admittedly I am easily distracted. I also try to surround myself with positive people. Read more>>

Krissy

Developing my confidence in the field of modeling and being a entrepreneur took some time . I developed my confidence and self esteem as I worked . The more I did the more confident I became . I think the best way to develop yourself is to go through the motions and grow with what you’re challenged with in life . I also feel as if I’m always building in that area as I continue to work. Read more>>

Haniyfa Muhammad Branka

From an early age, my parents instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to and the importance of education. They taught me that true confidence isn’t just about self-assurance; it’s about knowing your worth and standing firm in your truth. They showed me that confidence comes from trusting your abilities, even when the path ahead is unclear. Most importantly, they taught me that my voice mattered and that I could take pride in who I was, regardless of how the world might view me. Confidence is rooted in my self-esteem and has been a key factor in my personal and professional growth. It’s not just a matter of “feeling confident,” but a more profound, intrinsic belief in my worth and contribution to the world. Read more>>

Chanice Williams

Honestly it came from other people’s insecurities being projected upon me. I realized as a kid I wasn’t insecure, but as I got older and dealing with being bullied in school and societal pressures on beauty standards, I developed insecurities, thinking I was too fat, or ugly, my hair isn’t pretty enough, I used to wish I was mixed and had “good hair”. I gained my confidence and self-esteem back through my spiritual growth. I was broken and I was searching for healing, and I had to unlearn the way of thinking that others projected onto me. I learned to love myself completely flaws and all from the inside out. I literally had to start standing and looking at myself in the mirror and love to accept myself and what I see when I look at me. I learned that if there’s something I don’t like about myself or my habits only I have the power to change it. Read more>>

Genesis Morris

Finding my confidence has been a long journey. Starting my content journey a little over a year ago has helped my confidence tremendously. I believe it was last October I was working in retail and I was obsessed with TikTok, trying to figure out how to gain followers and go viral. My coworker Stefani and I decided to post every single day for a month no matter what. I’m a perfectionist so this really forced me to stop overthinking, put it out and see whatever happens. Some videos were fun, others were crazy but we stuck to it. Unfortunately we didn’t gain a big following or go viral but this challenge really freed me from talking myself out of doing something or saying I’m not good enough etc. Shortly after that I started brainstorming about my coffee show “G’s Brew & Banter” and when I tell you most filming days were full of hiccups. Read more>>

Sandra Arnold

By loving myself. Being secure with who I am mentally, physically and emotionally. Not caring what others may say or think of me. Marching to my own drum. Doing and wearing what makes me feel good. Read more>> 

Terri Conrad

I was born into a family ill-equipped to parent children in kind, loving & constructive manner. There were four children, I am the youngest, my mother and father. Our abuse was profound, ultimately necessitating my estranging myself from this family for my well being and to begin my healing journey. As a result, I was left with many deep seated and faulty beliefs that were established as a result of this neglect and abuse. Read more>>

Rebekah Jarvey

I developed my confidence and self-esteem through a strong sense of identity as an Indigenous woman. Embracing my heritage has been central to my journey, and it shines through in how I present myself. Wearing clothes designed by Indigenous designers make me feel powerful and proud. It’s not just about the clothes—it’s the stories they carry and the strength they represent. Having good hair and makeup complements that confidence, allowing me to feel fully put together and ready for the fashion industry. For me, it’s about celebrating who I am, inside and out. Read more>>

Sydney Cisco

Confidence is so important to artistry because it involves constantly selling yourself as well as trusting your own judgement. Design and creative direction really comes down to making smart decisions and it can be difficult. For me, it’s natural to trust my own vision but not obsess over control. The best part of working as an artist and photographer is collaboration. You need to be open and positive in your attitude. Read more>>

Jodi-kay Edwards

Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, I was surrounded by stories whether it was the tales shared by my family or the ones I created in my head as I climbed coconut trees with friends. When I moved to the U.S., everything shifted. I went from feeling like I belonged to feeling invisible. Being the new kid who sounded different and looked different wasn’t easy, and the bullying I faced made me question my worth. For a while, I let those voices dictate how I showed up. Read more>>

Juliette Ricci Lagman

I developed my confidence and self-esteem by working on it. I have been working with a life coach who guided me to record my personalized affirmations. Every morning I meditate on them. Additionally, posting my first podcast episode and publishing my second book brought me quite a bit of confidence. Just having that feeling of getting it done! Read more>>

J. Kay Weldon

I was raised to always show gratitude. Be grateful for everything: even when you have nothing. We didn’t have much growing up but I valued everything I had: which I believe gives me an advantage in life because it made me resourceful and I can adapt to most situations. When you can adapt, most obstacles are easier to overcome and some obstacles are completely avoidable. I’ve had some amazing points in my life, but I can’t even begin to talk about the highs unless I acknowledge the lows. Read more>>

Anna Arson

Building self confidence has been an important journey for me. Early on, sharing my makeup tutorials online was intimidating but I realized that confidence isn’t about perfection, it’s about being authentic. I learned to trust my skills by pushing through self-doubt and focusing on my passion for beauty. Read more>>

Cyan Townley

For me personally, it took a lot of work and time for confidence to join me in my work. A huge help was my clientele who lifted me up every step of the way. I found myself loving being able to talk to people, learn their stories, and be able to give THEM confidence through my artwork. It’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done in my life and I never want to stop. In short I’d say that my confidence was mainly built up by my clients, and also by my amazing close circle of support made by friends and family. They’ve always given me the courage to try new things. Read more>>

Ann Mathew

Confidence is definitely not something that came naturally to me. Growing up, trying to navigate the expectations that were placed on me as a South Asian girl felt really overwhelming. The pressure to always be perfect and be seen as the “good daughter” ironically always made me feel like I was never enough. I ended up being so busy trying to live up to all of these expectations that I realized I didn’t even know myself at all, and looking back, that was definitely a big reason for my low confidence. Read more>>

Jesse Harkin

As a child I was very shy, so shy that when I got new shoes my mum had to warn people not to point them out or ask if they’re new or I would cry and refuse to wear them again because I hated any attention on me.
I started performing magic at age 12 and really struggled in front of crowds. I decided to make a clown character so I could be as loud and silly as I wanted and didn’t have to be embarrassed because I was being someone else but really it was just me with the volume turned all the way up!
I decided on a clown because when I was three years old I saw a circus. I thought the elephants were the coolest thing, and the next best thing was the clowns so I assumed they were in charge. So I thought if I became a clown, I’d get a pet elephant. I was bullied out of the idea of being a clown around age 5 or 6. Read more>>

Olivia Powell

Over the years, I was always known as “the quiet girl.” The thing is, I wasn’t shy, I was just always observing my surroundings and if I wasn’t in the position or environment that made me comfortable, I would close out the world. I have always had a genuine love for people, always wanted to put a smile on people’s face or make them feel valued but I wasn’t getting that back in return which ultimately led me to feel as if I couldn’t be myself. This lead to me questioning my confidence. As I got older, lack of self-identity and not being able to express myself affected my life as a creative. I no longer wanted to act, sing or dance. I just wanted to be in my own element where I felt safe. It became a domino affect and I began to lose opportunities that I once had. One day, I got up and told myself that I have to trust myself and the world deserves to feel the love I have have to give and see my talents.  Read more>>

Meg Egerton

My father was a talented man and artist who could draw, paint, woodwork, write books, you name it. I always wanted to have some of his skill and especially with drawing but it wasn’t to be (I am a very strong stick figurist!). Right up until my forties I was always looking for my self worth in others praise, love or kindness towards me. I would focus on helping others and loving them but never myself. I took a pottery course with my kids for fun and fell in love. Eventually they lost interest but I didn’t. Through pottery I found myself. I learned to centre clay and myself. I learned to love the pieces I created (despite their imperfections) while also learning to love the person I am. I no longer looked to others for validation and started to accept my pottery and myself as I was, faults and all. Read more>>

Oliver Endahl

Confidence is a big issue in the arts world. Being a professional photographer who’s been shooting for close to 15 years, I’ve encountered and collaborated with every genre of artist. (Dancers, singers, actors, painters, bakers, interior designers, writers, skateboarders, etc..) A theme I often see with every genre of artist, is a lot of them suffer from lack of confidence and lack of validation. Read more>>