The confidence code : the science and art of self-assurance - what women should know

Confidence is a quality we all desire, yet it often seems elusive. The authors of a bestselling book deconstruct this misunderstood trait and provide a blueprint for cultivating it. Is confidence innate to a select few, or can anyone learn it? Is it best expressed through bravado, or is there a subtler way to demonstrate it? The authors explore why many women, even the most accomplished, grapple with self-doubt and whether there’s a secret to unlocking inner confidence. Journalists Katty Kay and Claire Shipman delve into neuroscience to investigate the roots of confidence in our brains. They consult leading psychologists who reveal that confidence can be developed through action and risk-taking, which can alter our neural pathways. Interviews with women leaders from various fields provide insights into how they harness this vital resource. The authors highlight the detrimental effects of low confidence on leadership and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, while genetics play a role in confidence, it is not a fixed trait. You won’t find it through positive thinking or by pretending to be confident. Instead, it requires a shift away from perfectionism and people-pleasing towards action, risk, and embracing failure. This inspiring exploration shows that by acting authentically, women can experience the transformative power of confidence in their lives.