A Gallup study found that only 31% of employees strongly agree they have confidence in their ability to handle the demands of their role.
For Project Managers, this challenge can feel even more real when you’re: spinning multiple plates, leading others, facing unclear direction or scope and dealing with difficult clients or team members,
So, where does confidence come from?
- Is it experience?
- A good boss?
- Positive feedback?
All of those help, but none of them are fully in your control.
Here’s what is in your control: how you show up, what you prepare for, and how you handle setbacks.
Confidence is not something that just happens; it’s built on consistency and preparation, nothing fancy.
Here are some tips to help 👇🏼
​
1. Make Commitments You Can Keep (And Keep Them)
Confidence grows when you trust yourself.
Start by being intentional: “This week, I’ll follow up on all actions within 24 hours.”
Stick to that. When you meet your standards, your team starts to mirror them, and your internal confidence strengthens.​
2. Review What You Got Right
Most PMs only reflect when something goes wrong.
Flip that.
At the end of each week, ask: “What did I handle well this week?” Write down 3 things, even small ones. This builds self-awareness and reminds you of your growth. And remember, you grow and get better every week, it’s not abo​​ut doing a new course, experience matters.
3. Stack Small Wins
Confidence isn’t one big moment like the end of a project; it’s building up all the small wins on a project and stacking​ them.
Did you prep the agenda properly?
Send a great update?
Pre-empt an issue?
A surprise thank you from a normally grumpy client!
These small wins reinforce you’re doing good work. Pay attention to them and keep stacking.
4. Build a Self-Development Habit
Confidence grows when you feel you’re improving.
Set a rhythm for your development. Read a PM newsletter every other Tuesday ;) . One skill to improve each quarter. One reflection session every Friday.
Work harder on yourself than you do on your job, and the confidence will follow.
5. Ask for Feedback That Helps
Generic “doing fine” feedback won’t help you grow.
Instead ask:
“What’s one thing I could do better in our next project together?”
Or: “What do you think I’m doing well that I might not notice?”
Confidence grows faster when it’s supported by insight.
‍
‍“Confidence comes not from always being right but from not fearing to be wrong.” — Peter T. McIntyre
‍
Confidence is built quietly, day by day, like anything; there is no silver bullet, so look for the 1% improvements.
Trust builds it. Self-awareness strengthens it. Growth locks it in.
I hope you find these tips helpful.
Have a great week 💪🏼
Ben.
‍
