I just wrapped up the first week of my confidence challenge. It wasn’t so much about big actions as it was about shifting my thinking patterns. I paid attention to when I overthought and reflected on why, which let me reframe fear into something else – an obstacle I could tackle.

Confidence isn’t just what you do, it’s how you think about what you do. And this week, I noticed my inner voice starting to change.

My goal was simple: in every opportunity, act as if I were already confident.

When I caught myself thinking:

“I feel too lazy right now”

“I’ll do it later”

“I don’t want to embarrass myself”

…I acted immediately. No pausing. No overthinking.

I wasn’t perfect. There were times I hesitated or took the more comfortable route. But that’s how change happens. You start small, keep trying, and eventually the uncomfortable becomes manageable.

One small but meaningful win was leaving the gym with my hair wrapped in a towel after showering. Normally I’d feel embarrassed, but I walked out proudly. And you know what? No one cared. No one even noticed. It made me wonder why I’d ever been so shy about it… and it encouraged me to try something bolder next time.

It reminded me that the thought of doing something is often scarier than actually doing it. So next time you think, “I’m scared” try reframing it to, “I’m curious to see how this turns out.”

Another challenge I gave myself was asking a loved one a slightly uncomfortable question I’d normally avoid. What began as awkward turned into a heartfelt, honest conversation that left us both feeling lighter and closer.

If you find yourself hesitating this week, give yourself a 5-second countdown and act before your mind talks you out of it. My progress this week wasn’t huge, but it was real. And next week is another chance to be braver and stronger.