Speaking with confidence isn’t just about projecting your voice; it’s about silencing the critic inside your head that whispers, “You’re not good enough.”
This inner judge can appear at the worst possible moments: before a big presentation, in the middle of a meeting, or even during casual conversations. Left unchecked, it can undermine your presence and stop you from speaking up.
The truth is: confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can strengthen. Below, I’ll share five practical strategies I use with clients to help them overcome self‑doubt, reclaim their voice, and speak with impact.
Tip 1: Challenge the Voice of Your Inner Critic
Your inner judge thrives on repetition. It feeds you the same self‑doubting phrases until they feel like truth. The first step is recognising that these thoughts are not facts.
Action: Write down the negative thought, then reframe it with evidence that proves the opposite. For example:
- Judge: “I always stumble over my words.”
- Reframe: “Last week I led a team call clearly and everyone understood me.”
This simple shift weakens the critic’s power.
Tip 2: Breathe for Presence and Control
Anxiety shows up in the body first. If your breath is shallow, your voice will sound tight and nervous. By grounding yourself in the breath, you immediately reclaim authority.
Action: Before speaking, inhale deeply into your belly for four counts, hold for four, exhale slowly for six. This calms your nervous system and steadies your voice.
Tip 3: Rehearse Out Loud (Not in Your Head)
Your brain loves to trick you into thinking you’re prepared because you’ve thought through what you’ll say. But real confidence comes from physical practice.
Action: Say your words out loud, ideally standing, using your full voice. Record yourself on your phone and listen back. This helps you catch nervous habits, refine your tone, and hear yourself as others do.
Tip 4: Anchor in Your Strengths
When self‑doubt hits, it’s easy to focus on what you can’t do. Confidence grows when you anchor yourself in what you already do well.
Action: List three strengths you bring to conversations (e.g., clarity, empathy, humour). Before speaking, remind yourself: “I’m here to share my clarity and empathy, that’s what people will hear.”
This shifts focus away from judgement and toward impact.
Tip 5: Visualise a Supportive Audience
Most people picture their audience as critics waiting for them to fail. That’s a guaranteed way to fuel anxiety. Instead, imagine your listeners as allies who want you to succeed.
Action: Close your eyes for 30 seconds before speaking and visualise faces nodding, smiling, and engaging positively. Your brain can’t tell the difference between imagined and real support, it will help you step in with calm assurance.
Outro
Your voice is one of the most powerful tools you own. By quieting the inner judge, you give yourself permission to speak with authenticity and impact.
Remember: confidence isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection. Each time you challenge the critic, steady your breath, and focus on your strengths, you build a stronger foundation for clear, confident communication.
✨ If you’re ready to go deeper and transform the way you speak, explore my coaching programmes at Speak Proud. Together we’ll build the confidence, clarity, and presence you need to make your voice impossible to ignore.
Reference
📝 This article was originally published in Brainz Magazine.
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