The Confidence Code
by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
Two journalists investigate the confidence gap between men and women, from genetics and neuroscience to upbringing and workplaces, and conclude that confidence is built by action, risk and failure rather than by thinking. It is well-reported and practical, and its core advice applies to anyone who overprepares and underacts.
Read it if…
you are highly competent and hold back until you are certain.
Skip it if…
you want a workbook; this is reporting with conclusions.
Three things you will actually use
- Act; confidence is a byproduct of doing.
- Fail fast and small to build tolerance.
- Stop ruminating; it is confidence's enemy.
Do this first
Volunteer for one thing this week you feel eighty percent ready for.
Our verdict
Well-reported and actionable; a good book on earned confidence.
Compare with other Confidence books
Presence
Amy Cuddy · Confidence
Encouraging with caveats; useful despite the replication debate.
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The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem
Nathaniel Branden · Confidence
A thorough classic; demanding and rewarding.
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