In my office sits a simple drink coaster, but the words etched on it speak volumes. It features a quote by Anaïs Nin: “Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” I read it every day because it reminds me of a truth every leader must embrace: courage fuels growth. And courage’s close cousin? Confidence.

But confidence doesn’t just appear overnight. It’s built through intentional habits, a strong mindset and bold action. Whether you’re just beginning your leadership journey or looking to elevate your executive presence, here are three practical steps to become a more confident leader.

Step 1: Believe in yourself

“Believe in yourself” may sound like a motivational poster phrase, but it’s more than that. It’s a neurological reality. You are the sum of your most dominant thoughts. Those inner conversations – the self-talk that loops in your mind all day – are shaping your sense of self and direct your actions, whether you realize it or not.

If your thoughts are rooted in doubt, fear or inadequacy, you’re training your brain to expect failure. But when you intentionally refocus your thoughts on strength, purpose and possibility, you begin carving new neural pathways that support confident action.

To strengthen your inner core, take time for a personal leadership retreat, even if it’s just a few hours on a weekend.

Reflect on these foundational elements:

• Your noble purpose: Why do you do what you do? What mission fuels you?
• Your values: What principles guide your decisions and actions?
• Your strengths: Use tools like CliftonStrengths or Working Genius to define what you do best.
• Your experiences: Revisit your wins. Own your leadership journey.
• Your resourcefulness: Remind yourself how often you’ve figured things out before.
• Your motive: As Lao Tzu said, “From caring comes courage.” What drives you to lead?

And remember, your self-belief doesn’t just affect you. It impacts everyone around you. If you don’t believe in yourself, it’s difficult to believe fully in others. Your team picks up on your energy. Confidence, like courage, is contagious.

Step 2: Expand your network

No leader grows in isolation. Relationships shape your journey, fuel your confidence and open doors you can’t access alone. That’s why the second step to building confidence is to intentionally expand your network.

You’ve likely heard the saying: “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” So, ask yourself – are those people building you up or tearing you down? You don’t have time for the “wrecking crew” – the constant critics, gossips or pessimists. Protect your energy.

Instead, surround yourself with people who:

• Take initiative and defy expectations.
• Are committed to personal and professional growth.
• Embrace new challenges with enthusiasm.
• Step forward when others step back.

These people carry courage when you can’t find your own. They speak life into your dreams and challenge you to stretch. As George MacDonald wrote, “Nothing makes one feel so strong as a call for help.” Yet many leaders hesitate to reach out for fear of appearing weak. Ironically, asking for help shows strength and opens the door for exponential growth.

Leadership expert Herminia Ibarra outlines three types of networks leaders need:

• Operational: Internal connections that help you manage your daily work.
• Personal: External relationships that nurture your growth and joy.
• Strategic: A mix of both, aimed at advancing long-term goals.

Don’t wait for mentorship to fall in your lap. Be proactive. Ask questions. Learn from those ahead of you. Confidence grows when you stand on the shoulders of others – and one day, others will stand on yours.

Step 3: Baby steps, then go all-in

Bill Murray’s character in “What About Bob?” took “baby steps” to conquer his fears and that strategy works for leaders, too. Confidence grows with movement, not contemplation. Taking even a small step toward your goal builds momentum.

Here are examples of what that could look like:

• Speak up in a meeting where you usually remain quiet.
• Volunteer for a leadership opportunity you’re unsure you’re ready for.
• Map out your dream side-business or initiative.
• Hire a coach, trainer or therapist to push your growth.

As Mahatma Gandhi said, “You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.” Waiting for perfect clarity leads to stagnation. Confidence is built through motion – especially imperfect motion.

Once you’ve taken a step, open your wings and go all-in. Too many leaders hedge their bets, afraid of failing or being judged. But real leadership demands commitment. Remove the safety nets and trust in your ability to figure it out.

Expect resistance. Fear will show up. It always does. But confidence isn’t the absence of fear; it’s your choice to act in its presence. As one leader put it, “Fear, I see you. I know you’re here – but you’re not getting the steering wheel.”

And finally, lead with courage and inspire with confidence. When you build your confidence, you don’t just change your trajectory – you elevate everyone around you. You make it easier for your team to take risks, to pilot new ideas, and to believe in themselves. You become the spark of courage in their journey.

So, whatever you’re thinking of doing, do it. Not recklessly, but courageously.

Believe in yourself. Expand your network. Take action.

Leadership isn’t about being fearless – it’s about doing the next right thing, one confident step at a time.

Paul D. Casey lives in the Tri-Cities and is the owner of Growing Forward Services, which aims to equip and coach leaders and teams to spark breakthrough success.