10 Things Confident Leaders Don’t Struggle With (But Most Others Do)

Over the past two decades, I’ve worked with thousands of leaders in some of the world’s best-known organisations. And when it comes to the truly confident ones, there are a few things they just seem to find easier.

Not because those things are easy, but because confident leaders have developed the mindset, habits and emotional tools that most others haven’t.

Here are ten things confident leaders don’t struggle with (and why that matters):

1. Saying “I don’t know”

They don’t fake certainty. Confident leaders are comfortable admitting when they don’t have the answer. They know that curiosity beats bullsh*t. It builds trust, not doubt.

2. Making decisions without all the information

They know action beats perfection.

While others wait for every detail, confident leaders are willing to make clear calls based on what they do know. And they adjust as they go.

3. Giving honest feedback

They don’t fear awkward conversations.

They see feedback as a gift, not a risk. They give it with clarity, care and purpose, even when it’s uncomfortable.

4. Owning their mistakes

They don’t get defensive.

Confident leaders take responsibility without blaming others. That self-assurance creates psychological safety across the team.

5. Letting others shine

They’re not threatened by talent.

Insecure leaders hoard attention. Confident ones amplify it. They attract high performers who want to work with them.

6. Asking for help

They don’t see it as weakness.

They know their strengths and gaps. They bring in the right people to close them, rather than pretending they can do it all.

7. Making space to think

They don’t confuse busyness with value.

Confident leaders step back to reflect, reset and think strategically. That’s where real leadership lives.

8. Saying no (without guilt)

They don’t chase popularity.

They protect their time and energy. Not out of arrogance, but clarity. They know what matters and what doesn’t.

9. Asking great questions

They don’t need to prove they’re the smartest in the room.

Instead, they unlock insight by listening more than they speak.

10. Showing up consistently

They don’t ride the emotional rollercoaster.

Because they’ve learned how to manage their state, they show up with presence, purpose and clarity. Even when things are tough.

Final thought:

While I believe that confidence isn’t something you have or don’t, it’s something you do or don't do, I also know that the more you practice the state of confidence, the more these behaviours become second nature.

Want to help your leaders lead with more confidence, gravitas and impact?

Let’s have a conversation about developing confident leaders in your business.

We design leadership programmes that are as practical as they are powerful, and engaging.

Email me now at richard@twentyoneleadership.com to secure dates before the end of the year.