Wellbeing Resource

Building Confidence

Practical steps to help young people grow self-belief, resilience and a kinder inner voice.

What is confidence?

Confidence means believing that you can try, learn and grow — even when something feels difficult. It does not mean feeling perfect all the time. Confidence grows through small steps, practice and encouragement.

Signs confidence may be low

  • ✓ Avoiding new challenges
  • ✓ Saying “I can’t” before trying
  • ✓ Comparing yourself to others
  • ✓ Feeling nervous about speaking up
  • ✓ Only noticing mistakes instead of progress

Try this confidence exercise

At the end of each day, write down:

  • 1. One thing you tried.
  • 2. One thing you handled well.
  • 3. One thing you are learning.

Confidence-building tips

  • ✓ Start with small goals.
  • ✓ Celebrate effort, not just results.
  • ✓ Replace “I can’t” with “I’m learning.”
  • ✓ Spend time with people who encourage you.
  • ✓ Remember that confidence grows through practice.

Mini Challenge

Write one sentence beginning with: “I am proud of myself for…”

When to ask for support

If low confidence is stopping you from joining in, speaking up or trying things you care about, it can help to talk to a trusted adult, teacher, parent or wellbeing support service.