As an executive coach, I’ve seen firsthand how the healthcare industry can challenge even the most capable leaders. Whether you're a surgeon facing high-pressure decisions or a healthcare executive navigating complex teams, confidence isn’t just a nice-to-have trait—it’s a must.
But let’s be real: Confidence isn’t something you can just wish for. It’s a skill, and like any skill, it can be developed and refined with practice.
Now, let’s dive into some weird tips that may seem unconventional but actually work wonders for building the confidence you need to lead with authority and grace. Whether you're preparing for a big presentation, stepping into a new leadership role, or simply trying to command the respect of your team, these tips are here to help.
1. Stand Like You Own the Room (Literally)
We’ve all heard of power poses, but let’s take it a step further. Next time you’re walking into a meeting or stepping onto a hospital floor, try this: Imagine you’re walking into the room as though it’s your domain—because, in a sense, it is. Stand tall, shoulders back, and take up more space.
Why does this work? The way you carry yourself physically directly impacts how others perceive you—and more importantly, how you perceive yourself. When you physically "claim" your space, you send a signal to your brain that you belong there, boosting your internal confidence and signaling to others that you are a leader.
2. Pretend You're Giving a TED Talk (Even If You're Just Talking to One Person)
Ever felt that overwhelming pressure when speaking to a group or giving an update to your leadership team? Here’s the secret: Treat every conversation as though you’re giving a TED Talk. Imagine you're sharing something groundbreaking and impactful.
Why does this work? When you treat every conversation as an opportunity to share something valuable, you bring more energy, passion, and confidence into your voice. Your audience—whether it's one person or many—will pick up on that energy and respond accordingly.
3. Say ‘No’ to Perfection (And Yes to Progress)
As a high-performing surgeon or healthcare executive, you’re likely used to aiming for perfection. But here’s the truth: perfectionism often kills confidence. Why? Because perfection is unattainable and setting that expectation for yourself can make you second-guess every decision you make.
Instead, embrace the idea of progress over perfection. Each decision, each conversation, and each leadership moment is an opportunity to learn and grow. Give yourself permission to be imperfect and focus on the impact you're making.
4. Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable
Confidence isn’t about never feeling nervous—it’s about learning how to navigate discomfort. Whether you’re in a high-stakes surgical operation or a boardroom presentation, you’re going to feel uncomfortable at times. The trick is to lean into it.
Why does this work? Leaders who grow in confidence understand that discomfort is part of the process. The more you can embrace moments of uncertainty and challenge, the more you’ll expand your comfort zone and feel more confident in your leadership abilities.
5. Visualize Your Success (But Don't Overthink It)
Visualization is a well-known technique in leadership and sports, but here’s the twist: You don’t need to have every detail of your success figured out. Instead, spend a few moments each day visualizing how you want to feel in your role, how you want your team to respond to you, or how you want to lead during stressful situations.
Why does this work? Visualization activates the brain in a way that helps reinforce the belief that success is possible. You’re not just imagining the end result—you’re reinforcing the emotional resilience and confidence you need to get there.
6. Celebrate Small Wins (Yes, Even the Tiny Ones)
As a surgeon or healthcare leader, you're likely focused on the big goals—advancing in your career, transforming your department, improving patient outcomes. But here's the thing: small wins matter. Celebrate them. Whether it's getting through a tough day without feeling overwhelmed, receiving positive feedback from a colleague, or solving a problem that’s been weighing on you—take a moment to acknowledge your achievements.
Why does this work? Celebrating small wins builds a sense of momentum and reinforces the idea that you're capable. It boosts your confidence in the process and in your ability to lead effectively.
7. Be Your Own Biggest Advocate
As healthcare professionals, you're often focused on serving others—whether it's your patients or your team. But when it comes to your leadership role, it’s crucial to advocate for yourself. Don’t wait for someone to notice your contributions. Speak up about the value you bring and be proactive in showcasing your achievements.
Why does this work? Leaders who confidently advocate for themselves build credibility and visibility. When you own your successes, you reinforce your self-worth and set the stage for others to recognize your impact.
Final Thoughts: Confidence Is a Practice, Not a Trait
The truth is, confidence isn’t something you're born with—it’s something you cultivate over time. It’s about showing up, believing in your worth, and using the tools at your disposal to navigate the challenges that come your way.
By incorporating these “weird” tips into your daily routine, you'll not only increase your confidence but also enhance your executive presence. Whether you're in a boardroom, a hospital corridor, or a team meeting, your confidence will shine through, earning the respect of your peers and the trust of your team.
Are you ready to unlock your executive presence and lead with more confidence? If you’re interested in learning more about how you can strengthen your leadership abilities, let’s connect. Together, we can develop a personalized coaching plan that focuses on what matters most to you and your career.
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