Ever feel like you’re not quite living up to your full potential? Like there’s a powerhouse inside of you just waiting to burst out, but something’s holding it back? That feeling of lacking confidence can often stem from not fully embracing your own power—your agency, ownership, and authority over your life. The good news is, you can rediscover and reclaim this power.
Reclaiming your power is a unique experience that is different for every woman.
So, while there is no formula for gaining greater confidence, you can tap into the right resources that can help you discover tools and practices that will support you.
Consider these seven confidence books as a beginner’s library. Learn how to tap into your intrinsic power, boost your confidence, and lead the life you’ve always dreamed of. On your own unique terms. So grab a comfy seat, your favorite beverage, and dive in!
1. The Strength in Our Scars
by Bianca Sparacino
This book is a nourishing read, especially if you’re navigating loss or a difficult life change. Sparacino beautifully illustrates how our scars—both physical and emotional—are not marks of shame but symbols of strength. Your scars tell stories of survival, resilience, and growth. By embracing your scars, you begin to recognize your own resilience and power, laying a foundation for unshakeable confidence. This book is a comforting companion that encourages you to see your struggles as stepping stones to greater self-awareness and self-love.
2. The Intuitive Way
by Penney Peirce
How many times have you said, “I don’t know what I want”? The truth is, you do know. You’ve just forgotten how to listen to that inner voice. “The Intuitive Way” provides practical tools and exercises to help you tune into your intuition and trust your inner knowing. By reconnecting with your intuition, you begin to understand what truly matters to you, which is a powerful step toward building confidence. This book teaches you that the answers you seek are already within you, just waiting to be uncovered. It’s so useful as a meditation and self-reflection guide that it is one of the primary textbooks that we reference in the confidence program, The Knowing Woman.
3. How to Do the Work
by Dr. Nicole LePera
Growth isn’t easy, and there’s no shortcut to achieving it. Dr. Nicole LePera, also known as “The Holistic Psychologist,” guides you through the journey of self-healing in “How to Do the Work.” This book emphasizes the importance of self-recognition and facing your fears head-on. By committing to doing the work, you liberate yourself from past traumas and limiting beliefs. On the other side of this hard work is freedom and confidence. Another must-read is Brianna Wiest’s “The Pivot Year“, which serves up a fresh thought for meditation and self-introspection for 365 days. It’s so juicy, you will want to have a highlighter handy.
4. The Mountain Is You
by Brianna Wiest
Sometimes the greatest challenges we face are not external but internal. “The Mountain Is You” by Brianna Wiest is about transforming self-sabotage into self-mastery. Wiest’s insightful writing helps you understand that the biggest obstacle to your success and confidence is often yourself. By learning to overcome your internal barriers, you begin to see a shift in your external world. This book encourages deep self-awareness and helps you unlock opportunities that were previously invisible.
5. Atomic Habits
by James Clear
Confidence isn’t just about big, bold moves; it’s built on small, consistent actions. James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” is a bestseller for a reason. It teaches you how to make tiny changes that lead to remarkable results. Clear’s approach demystifies the process of habit formation and shows you how to create positive habits that stick. By focusing on incremental improvements, you build a foundation of confidence brick by brick. This book is a practical guide to becoming the best version of yourself through daily habits.
6. The Confidence Code
by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
“The Confidence Code” is a must-read for any woman looking to boost her self-assurance. Kay and Shipman explore the science and psychology behind confidence, providing actionable advice on how to cultivate it. They delve into the gender confidence gap and offer strategies to close it. This book is empowering and insightful, giving you the tools to trust yourself more fully and to step confidently into new opportunities.
7. Daring Greatly
by Brené Brown
Brené Brown’s “Daring Greatly” is all about the power of vulnerability. Brown argues that embracing vulnerability is essential for living a wholehearted life. By daring to be vulnerable, you open yourself up to authentic connections, creativity, and growth. This book helps you understand that vulnerability is not a weakness but a courageous act that leads to greater confidence and fulfillment. Brown’s work is a transformative read that encourages you to show up and be seen, despite the fear of judgment.
Reclaiming Your Power
Power isn’t about domination or control; it’s about agency, ownership, and authority over your own life. Confidence stems from understanding what is within your control and what isn’t, and from embracing who you are and who you are not. These seven books offer valuable insights and practical tools to help you reconnect with your inner power and develop the confidence that comes from knowing yourself deeply.
Putting It Into Practice
As you read these books, take time to journal your thoughts and intuitive impressions. Reflect on what resonates with you and how you can apply the lessons to your own life. Confidence and power are inextricably linked, and the journey to reclaiming both starts with self-awareness. By investing in your personal growth, you are taking powerful steps toward a more confident and empowered you.
Final Thoughts
Building confidence is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continually learning, growing, and evolving. These books are excellent companions on your journey, offering wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. Give yourself the grace to be a beginner and to never stop growing.
Auxiliary Resource:
- The Knowing Woman, the confidence course for women.
- The Pivot Year, Brianna Wiest
