Building Confidence as a Business Owner

Confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t. It’s built—gradually, intentionally—through action, reflection, and alignment with your values.

At Startup School for Seniors and in my coaching with solo business owners, I often meet people who have brilliant ideas and deep motivation… but feel stuck by a lack of confidence. Whether it’s imposter syndrome, fear of failure, or feeling overwhelmed, the result is the same: inaction.

The good news? Confidence is a skill. And like any skill, you can build it.

Here are three actionable ways to start today.

Take small actions that stretch your comfort zone

We often think confidence comes before action. In truth, it’s the other way around. You build confidence by doing the thing—even if you’re only 80% ready.

Pick one small thing that feels just outside your comfort zone:

• Record a short video introducing your business

• Reach out to someone you admire on LinkedIn

• Tell a friend about your new offer or idea

Each small action creates evidence that you can do difficult things. Stack enough of those, and your self-belief starts to grow.

Resource: Action for Happiness – Confidence Calendar

This downloadable monthly calendar offers daily micro-actions to help boost confidence and self-worth. Even if you don’t follow it every day, every day has a suggestion to make each day happier and easier for you.

Track your progress—however small

When we’re busy building something new, it’s easy to forget how far we’ve come. Confidence grows when we acknowledge progress.

At the end of each week, ask yourself:

• What did I do this week that I didn’t think I could?

• Where did I surprise myself?

• What did I learn?

This simple habit of reflection builds momentum and reinforces your capacity to grow—even when things don’t go exactly to plan. Ask me about my Whole Year Email, where I reflect on the good, the bad, the ugly and what I’ve learnt each week in the year.

Try this: Keep a “Done” list alongside your to-do list. It’s a powerful mindset shift.

Surround yourself with people who get it

Confidence can be fragile—especially when those around you don’t understand your business journey. That’s why building a supportive network is essential.

This could mean:

• Joining a local business support group (like those offered by teh FSB or your local Chamber of Commerce)

• Taking part in a confidence-building workshop

• Finding a coach or mentor who’s been where you are, perhaps find a time to talk to me

Being seen and supported by others who understand your challenges makes a huge difference—and reminds you that you’re not alone.

Resource: British Library Business & IP Centre (BIPC)

They run free workshops and offer access to mentors, many tailored to new and solo business owners.

Confidence isn’t loud. It’s quiet, grounded, and built from within.

If you’re starting or growing a business and struggling with self-belief, you’re not broken—you’re becoming. You don’t need to wait to feel “ready” before you act. Start small. Act now. Build your confidence brick by brick.

And if you’d like structured support as you grow, my programme From Just Busy to Blooming helps business owners like you move from spinning plates to stepping forward with confidence and purpose.

Resource: Mind UK – Tips for Building Confidence

A practical guide to understanding and strengthening your self-belief.