The Confidence Code

The Confidence Code – Claire Shipman

Why do so many accomplished, highly capable women doubt themselves? And what can be done about it?

In The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance, What Women Should Know, journalists Katty Kay and Claire Shipman set out to understand the confidence gap they had noticed in themselves and in many successful women they interviewed. Drawing on research in psychology, neuroscience and genetics, along with conversations with leaders in politics, business, sports and the military, they explore what confidence really is, where it comes from and why women often have less of it than men.

The authors argue that confidence is not simply a personality trait people are born with, but something that can be built through action. They examine the roles of biology, upbringing and social expectations, and identify habits that undermine women’s self-assurance, such as perfectionism, overthinking and the tendency to wait until feeling completely ready before acting.

Practical advice shows readers how to take more risks, accept failure as part of growth, stop ruminating and act even when they feel uncertain, while staying true to their own style rather than imitating others.

Engaging, research-based and full of real stories, The Confidence Code is an empowering read for women at every stage of their careers and lives, and a useful resource for parents, managers and mentors who want to help women and girls thrive.