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Studies show that girls’ confidence drops by 30% between ages 8 and 14, often due to fear of failure or comparison. That’s why developing self-awareness, communication skills, and a sense of purpose early on is so important. Here are 3 tips to help you build that confidence.

Tip 1: Practice “ Progress Confidence”

Confidence grows when you focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins, like speaking up in class, turning in an assignment early, or helping a friend. Each act of courage builds the next.

Tip 2: Speak with Self-Respect

How we talk to ourselves matters. Replace negative self-talk (I’m not good at this”) with growth language (“I’m learning this”). Positive self-talk builds inner strength and resilience.

Tip 3: Know Who You Are Becoming

Self-awareness creates lasting confidence. Values like kindness, curiosity, and creativity make choices that align with those values. Confidence grows when you’re rooted in purpose, not popularity.

By Victoria Henley