We often talk about the power of confidence and how it can make conversations easier. But truth be told, not all of us find it easy to sound self-assured. Some of us feel jittery, while others struggle with self-doubt.

Here’s the silver lining though – confidence is a skill you can definitely work on. And an excellent starting point? The phrases you use.

In this article, we’re going to explore ten phrases that can instantly boost your confidence in any chat. These aren’t just random words, mind you. They’re carefully chosen phrases that can help you build better relationships and seize more opportunities.

Let’s get started.

1. “I don’t know, but I’ll find out”

This might seem counterintuitive at first. After all, saying “I don’t know” doesn’t sound very confident, does it?

But here’s the twist – following it up with “but I’ll find out” shows that you’re someone who takes initiative and is willing to learn. It’s a phrase that signals honesty and determination, two traits that can bolster your confidence levels.

Plus, it’s always better to admit you don’t know something than to bluff your way through a conversation. People appreciate sincerity and this phrase is a real testament to that.

So the next time you’re stumped, remember this phrase. It’s your ticket to turning an awkward moment into an opportunity to shine.

2. “I believe in this”

This phrase is a powerful affirmation of your confidence, not just in yourself, but also in what you’re discussing or proposing.

It shows that you have faith in your ideas and are willing to stand by them. It also implies that you’ve done the necessary groundwork and are prepared to defend your stance.

This phrase can be especially useful in work settings, during meetings or presentations, when you need to persuade others about a plan or project. Just remember, use it wisely and only when you genuinely believe in what you’re advocating for. Authenticity is key!

3. “I’ve learned from my past mistakes”

Admitting to past mistakes can be tough, but it’s a mark of a confident person. It shows you’re not afraid to acknowledge your errors and, more importantly, that you see them as learning opportunities rather than failures.

For instance, I remember a time when I was tasked with leading a project at work. Despite my best efforts, the project didn’t go as planned and we missed our deadline. Instead of dodging the blame, I openly admitted my mistake in our team meeting. I said, “I’ve learned from my past mistakes, including the missteps on this project.” This not only helped me gain respect from my colleagues but also boosted my confidence knowing that I was capable of owning up to my errors and learning from them.

So don’t shy away from this phrase – it’s a testament to your growth and resilience.

4. “I’m always open to new ideas”

This phrase radiates a level of confidence that is both refreshing and inviting. It says you’re not only secure in your own ideas, but also interested in hearing what others have to say. It opens the door for collaboration and shows you value other perspectives.

Saying “I’m always open to new ideas” not only boosts your confidence but also makes you a valuable team player. So go ahead and use this phrase, it might just open doors to some great opportunities and learning experiences.

5. “I’m grateful for…”

This phrase might seem more about expressing gratitude than exuding confidence. But you’d be surprised at how closely the two are linked.

Expressing gratitude reminds us of our achievements and the good things in our lives, which in turn boosts our self-esteem. It also portrays us as grounded and humble individuals, qualities that often radiate a quiet confidence.

Saying “I’m grateful for…” could be as simple as acknowledging someone’s assistance, thanking someone for their patience, or expressing appreciation for an opportunity. It’s a heartfelt phrase that not only enhances our own confidence but also brightens someone else’s day.

And that’s a win-win in my book!

6. “I can do it”

Short, simple, and yet so powerful – “I can do it” is a phrase that radiates pure self-belief. It’s an affirmation that you are capable and ready to take on the task at hand.

I remember when I was faced with a challenging assignment that seemed impossible at first. Instead of succumbing to self-doubt, I kept telling myself “I can do it.” This simple phrase became my mantra, helping me power through the hurdles and eventually complete the assignment successfully. It was a testament to the fact that sometimes, all you need is a pinch of self-belief to turn things around.

So the next time you’re faced with a daunting challenge, remind yourself – “I can do it.” You’ll be amazed at how much of a confidence booster it can be!

7. “I need help”

Now, this is a tricky one. Asking for help can sometimes make us feel vulnerable. We fear it might make us appear weak or incompetent.

But here’s the raw and honest truth – it’s perfectly okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. It shows you understand your limitations and aren’t too proud to seek assistance when needed. It also opens up opportunities for learning and growth.

So the next time you’re struggling with something, don’t hesitate to say “I need help”. It doesn’t make you any less confident. On the contrary, it shows you’re confident enough to admit you don’t have all the answers, and that’s a pretty brave thing to do.

8. “I respect your opinion”

This phrase is a powerful tool for building rapport and showing respect for others’ views, even when they differ from your own. It demonstrates emotional intelligence and shows that you’re open-minded and considerate, which are traits of a confident person.

Here’s an interesting fact: a study found that people who are open to opposing views tend to be more confident and secure about their own beliefs.

So by saying “I respect your opinion”, you’re not only boosting your confidence but also fostering a more inclusive and respectful conversation. It’s a win-win!

9. “I’m proud of my progress”

Confidence isn’t just about the now, it’s also about acknowledging how far you’ve come. The phrase “I’m proud of my progress” is a personal pat on the back, a recognition of your efforts and growth.

I remember when I first started learning to play the piano. To be honest, it was a struggle. My fingers fumbled on the keys and I couldn’t get the timing right. But instead of getting frustrated, I chose to celebrate my small victories – the first time I played a song without mistakes, the first time I memorized a piece by heart. Each time, I’d tell myself, “I’m proud of my progress.”

It was a reminder that while I still had a long way to go, I was moving forward. And that thought was an instant confidence booster.

10. “I’m still learning”

This phrase is a raw and honest admission that you’re a work in progress, and that’s perfectly okay. It shows you’re humble enough to acknowledge there’s still room for growth. It can be applied to any situation, whether you’re mastering a new skill, adapting to a new job, or navigating through life’s ups and downs.

Saying “I’m still learning” signals to others (and yourself) that you’re open to new experiences and knowledge. It encourages a growth mindset, which is a key attribute of confident individuals.

So, embrace being a lifelong learner – it keeps you grounded, yet confident in your journey.