If you’ve been feeling a little unsure about your future at work lately, you’re not alone. A recent LinkedIn Workforce Confidence survey shows that people across industries are feeling less confident in their job security—even lower than during the height of the pandemic. From GenZ to Baby Boomers confidence scores dropped significantly, and It’s not hard to figure out why.
Guess what? We’re living in turbulent times—economic shifts, political tension, environmental uncertainty, and the continued evolution of how and where we work. All that together can rock the foundations of even the most seasoned professionals.
Here’s the reality: we can’t always control what happens around us, but we can learn to ground ourselves in what matters most—and that makes all the difference.
Let’s talk about how you can use this moment to strengthen your growth mindset, reduce self-doubt, and show up with the kind of grounded confidence that makes people see you as capable, trustworthy, and invaluable.
Why Confidence Is Shaky Right NowThere’s a lot going on in our world, and when external threats rise, so can internal fears. Imposter syndrome surfaces. That little voice in your head starts to whisper, “Am I doing enough?” or worse, “Do I even belong here?” It’s easy to spiral into self-doubt, especially when the world feels out of control.
Don’t let that voice take over. This is where your inner work begins.
Ground Yourself in Your ValuesWhen the world around you is shifting it’s even more important than ever to know what you stand for.
Ask yourself:
- What matters most to me in the work I do?
- What kind of person do I want to be, regardless of the circumstances?
- What strengths do I bring that no one else does quite the same way?
Getting clear on your values can be your anchor. It keeps you from drifting too far off course when the waves get rough. Whether it’s integrity, creativity, compassion, or reliability, naming your core values reconnects you with your purpose. When you lead from that place, people notice.
Cultivate a Growth MindsetA growth mindset means believing that your skills, talents, and capacity to adapt are not fixed—they can grow with effort, practice, and support.
This mindset doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties or pretending everything is “fine”. It means acknowledging the challenges and asking, What can I learn here? or How might I grow stronger because of this experience?
For example:
- If your team is restructuring, you might think: This is a chance to learn new ways of working.
- If you’re not getting feedback, you might ask for it: How can I improve and add more value?
When you step back for perspective these questions can spark new ways of looking at things and help you stay in motion instead of feeling stuck.
Emotional Regulation Is a SuperpowerWhen life gets uncertain, emotions ramp up. Anxiety, frustration, fear—they’re all normal. How we respond to those emotions is what sets confident professionals apart.
Instead of reacting from a place of fear, practice pausing. Take a breath. Name the emotion. Ask yourself: What’s actually true here, and what story am I telling myself?
A little bit more awareness gives you space to respond with intention rather than reactivity. That builds trust—not only with others, but within yourself. The more often we practice this, the more grounded and confident we can be.
Imposter Syndrome Doesn’t Mean You’re FailingFeeling like you don’t belong—or that you’re going to be “found out” as a fake—is even more common during uncertain times. Imposter syndrome isn’t proof that you’re not good enough. It’s proof that you actually care.You want to do well. You want to contribute. That matters!
Quiet the inner critic:
- Allow yourself to celebrate wins and positive feedback.
- Know that your worth isn’t measured only in productivity.
- Surround yourself with people who see your value and remind you of it.
- See theirs too, supporting others creates trust and collaboration.
- Check how you’re talking to yourself. Would you say that to a friend who is feeling the same way?
Being Confident Even When You Don’t Feel ItConfidence isn’t about pretending to have all the answers. It’s about showing up fully—curious, open, willing to learn—and staying connected to your values even when it’s hard.
When you do that:
- People trust you more.
- They turn to you in moments of uncertainty.
- They see you not just as capable, but as someone who helps them feel steadier, too.
This doesn’t have to be flashy achievements or titles. It requires presence, steadiness, and the ability to stay grounded even when others are losing their footing.
Yes, Times are ChallengingThere’s no doubt—we’re in a complex time, but that doesn’t mean you’re can’t do anything to take care of yourself. Your self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and your ability to stay true to your values are more important than ever.
You don’t need to have all the answers. You can choose to be the kind of person who meets uncertainty with a steady heart and an open mind. That’s how you stand out—not just in your job, but in your life.
Take a breath. Remember who you are. Let that be your foundation, even when the ground feels shaky. You’ve got this.