The Confidence Code

The Science and Art of Self-Assurance — What Women Should Know

by Katty Kay, Claire Shipman

4.4(2,644 ratings)

10 min read

Brief overview

This book explores why many women feel less sure of themselves than they should and shows how to build genuine self-assurance. It blends cutting-edge research with anecdotes and practical advice on cultivating a growth mindset, taking strategic risks, and escaping perfectionism. By focusing on action over endless deliberation, it provides a framework for transforming self-doubt into long-lasting confidence.

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why you second-guess yourself, even when you’re competent and prepared? Many of us grow up learning that if we work hard and do well, people will notice. Yet over and over, we see that expertise alone isn’t always enough. Something else is missing.

That missing piece, as countless anecdotes and research studies reveal, is confidence. Without it, even the most gifted among us can feel unsure when it’s time to speak up or take a chance. With it, we can transform our lives, learn from mistakes, and climb higher.

In these pages, you’ll discover how a subtle shift from overthinking to acting can change everything, and you’ll see why confidence isn’t about faking bravado but about building true self-belief through repeated effort and risk-taking.

Confidence Decoded

Confidence isn’t the same as self-esteem—how good we feel about ourselves in a broad sense. Instead, it’s more like a catalyst that turns our ideas and capabilities into action, the fuel that helps us speak up, lead a new project, or take a leap of faith at work.

Another factor is optimism, which leans on the belief that the future will work out. While optimism helps us stay positive, it doesn’t always spark action. Confidence, on the other hand, is linked directly to doing. It pushes us to test our ideas, even when success isn’t guaranteed.

Self-efficacy—a belief in our ability to handle specific tasks—forms a building block of confidence. When you overcome obstacles or gain mastery in one area, your overall confidence can grow, and that growth often extends into other parts of your life.

“Confidence is the stuff that turns thoughts into action.”

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What is The Confidence Code about?

This empowering book, "The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance — What Women Should Know," written by renowned authors Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, delves into the nuanced science and art of confidence. Building on the interconnected facets of nature and nurture, this exceptional read addresses the confidence gap that often exists between genders. Through a blend of compelling research, personal anecdotes, and motivational strategies, the authors provide women with the roadmap to develop genuine self-belief and resilience.

In a society often dominated by rigid expectations, "The Confidence Code" challenges women to redefine what it means to be confident. Engaging narratives illustrate how a growth mindset, strategic risk-taking, and the rejection of perfectionism can turn hesitation into strength. By advocating for action-oriented transformative methods, this book equips readers to combat limiting beliefs and invites them to reimagine their potential. Its real-world impact is profound, offering practical tools to help women thrive in personal and professional arenas.

Review of The Confidence Code

"The Confidence Code" is a well-researched exploration of the roots of confidence and its manifestations in women's lives. Kay and Shipman's insightful analysis distinguishes it among self-help books, as it moves beyond mere cheerleading to offer evidence-based frameworks. The book stands out for its relatability and practical application — real-life examples allow readers to see themselves in the material, while step-by-step strategies foster tangible change.

The writing style is refreshingly jargon-free, maintaining a professional yet conversational tone, thus making complex topics accessible to varied audiences. The authors’ insights into how confidence parallels both nature and nurture strike a harmonious balance, educating readers that while genetics plays a part, environment and mindset are equally influential.

Relevance spans across demographics, from young professionals grappling with self-doubt to executives looking to refine their assurance. Engaging guidance on challenging the status quo and cultivating authentic self-assurance offers valuable takeaways. Highly recommended, this book invites readers to not only learn about confidence but actively cultivate it.

Who should read The Confidence Code?

Young professionals early in their careers, discovering the importance of self-belief and career growth.
Executive leaders and aspiring managers seeking to enhance confidence in leadership roles.
Women working in male-dominated industries, striving for recognition and workplace equality.
Individuals interested in personal development and the psychology of success.
Teachers and mentors who guide young women and encourage them to cultivate resilience and self-assurance.

About the author

Katty Kay and Claire Shipman are renowned journalists and authors. Katty Kay is a British-Swiss journalist with over 30 years of experience, having worked for the BBC and NBC, and is the anchor of BBC World News America. Claire Shipman is an American journalist with nearly three decades of experience, including 14 years as a regular contributor to Good Morning America and other national broadcasts for ABC News. Together, they have co-authored several bestselling books, including "The Confidence Code," which explores the science and art of self-assurance, particularly focusing on women's confidence.