Some months ago, while navigating the gruelling process of submitting my novel to literary agents (known in the writing world as “the query trenches”), I found myself battling waves of impostor syndrome. You know that feeling – when despite your experience and knowledge, a voice inside whispers you’re not quite good enough?
That experience sparked something unexpected. As I developed strategies to maintain my sense of self-worth during constant rejection, I realised these tools could serve any woman facing moments of self-doubt. Whether you’re changing careers, starting a business, stepping into leadership, or simply wanting to own your power more fully, confidence often feels like that friend who shows up when you least need them and disappears when you need them most.
So I created these “Confidence Files” – not as another collection of empty affirmations, but as practical tools forged in real experience. This guide emerged from conversations with other women, research into psychology and leadership, and hard-won personal insights about what actually works when your confidence wavers.
Think of it as your pocket companion for those moments when you need to remember your power.
Please steal my ‘Confidence Files Pocket Guide’ below :
Building The Foundation: Your Victory Folder
Every journey needs a strong foundation. By deliberately collecting evidence of your capabilities and impact, you create a powerful antidote to self-doubt. When your inner critic speaks up, these tangible reminders of your growth and achievements help you stand firm in your worth.
- Create a dedicated folder for positive feedback
- Document every win, no matter how small
- Save thank-you notes and testimonials
- Keep a list of professional achievements
- Photograph meaningful milestones
- Record moments when you helped others
The Reality Check Practice:
Take stock of your unique experiences, skills, and knowledge. What have you overcome? What do people consistently ask your advice about? What experiences have shaped your perspective? List these out. When impostor syndrome hits, this inventory helps you see yourself clearly. More often or not you will find that you know more than you give yourself credit for:
- List your unique experiences and skills
- Note areas where others seek your advice
- Document challenges you’ve overcome
- Record specialised knowledge you’ve gained
- Write down your strengths and talents
- Remember compliments you’ve received
Rewriting Your Story:
Notice the narratives you tell yourself. Transform “I’m not ready” into “I’m learning and growing.” Replace “Others know more” with “My perspective adds value.” Shift “What if I fail?” to “What if I inspire someone?” Your inner dialogue shapes your outer reality.
- Challenge self-limiting thoughts
- Replace “not yet” with “learning”
- Transform fear into curiosity
- Question negative assumptions
- Create empowering alternatives
- Practice self-compassionate dialogue




Physical Confidence:
Stand in a power pose before challenging situations. Choose clothes that make you feel strong. Create environments where you feel most empowered. Use your strong voice – we all have one. Your body can lead your mind into confidence.
- Practice power poses daily
- Choose confidence-boosting clothes
- Create an empowering workspace
- Use strong body language
- Speak with your full voice Move with intention
The ‘Service’ Mindset:
Turn your focus outward. What would have helped your younger self? What wisdom do you wish you’d had earlier? How might your experience help others? When we focus on service, self-doubt naturally fades.
- Share your learning journey
- Mentor others when possible
- Offer your unique insights
- Support others’ growth
- Share resources generously
- Create value for others
Speaking with Power:
Turn your focus outward. What would have helped your younger self? What wisdom do you wish you’d had earlier? How might your experience help others? When we focus on service, self-doubt naturally fades.
- Practice measured speech
- Use intentional pauses
- Own your expertise
- Share your enthusiasm
- Handle mistakes gracefully
- Speak from experience (yes, you do have plenty!)
Growing Through The Challenge:
View each obstacle as a chance to build resilience. Celebrate small wins. Document your progress. Learn from setbacks. Keep moving forward. Like any skill, confidence grows stronger with practice.
The path to confidence unfolds differently for each of us, growing steadily with every small step we take. Your unique journey and experiences hold inherent value, shaping wisdom that deserves to be shared. While society often pushes us toward an impossible ideal of perfection, it’s our authentic voice that truly resonates with others. Each time you choose to show up as yourself, speak your truth, or take a step forward despite uncertainty, you’re not just building your own confidence – you’re lighting the way for others to do the same.

Hi ♥️, I’m Gisele Stein, author of feel-good novels with a little magic and places like characters, which i craft from my cosy cabin on Wadandi Boodja in Western Australia. Have a look at my books here. I’m also podcasting as The Earthy Writer, to document my rewilding year: Every new moon, I set a new rewilding intention for the month, and every full moon I share my learnings with you…