Immerse Yourself in an Artistic Project For a Major Confidence Boost

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Big Think has partnered with PwC to bring you big ideas on the future of women in leadership. Register here for a live webcast presented by PwC on February 27th with Claire Shipman and “The Confidence Code” co-author Katty Kay.

In all the talk on Big Think this month about leadership and confidence, there’s been an overwhelming focus on corporate culture and professional ambition. That’s in no way an indictment — it makes sense considering the business themes of The Confidence Code. But as Claire Shipman recently mentioned in a Big Think interview:

“One of the most profound things we learned in our research for this book is that confidence is a wonderful thing for all of our lives, not just our professional lives.”

Self-assurance enriches all facets of life. Relationships are better when you’re confident. Competition requires faith in one’s abilities. Self-expression is built upon the vital notion that something you have to say ought to be heard. Just as confidence improves our performance in these activities, the simple act of engaging in said activities can help build confidence as well. Case in point: Vermont Public Radio recently ran a nice feature about a photography exhibit titled “Through Our Lens.” The pieces on display were created during a workshop designed to build confidence in young mothers through an immersive creative process. To accomplish this, the group of women traveled from Vermont to Montreal to take photographs in a strange city while experiencing differences in language, culture, and customs. Photographer Kelly Holt, who led the workshop, described it as an opportunity for personal growth:

“This workshop really grew from an interest in art and identity, building a sense of self-confidence through the actual process of art-making, making discoveries and questioning those discoveries, and then coming to a new place with yourself and with your work.”

One of the women, Kayla Kizer, drew inspiration from one of the exhibit’s photos featuring a homeless man curled up for warmth. She says the experience has pushed her to campaign for a homeless shelter to be built in her town, an actionable pursuit directly tied to her artistic experience.

There’s no reason why the lessons and message of “Through Our Lens” can’t translate to your own life. Think about how you can incorporate your own brand of confidence-growing creativity. Place yourself outside your comfort zone and think about how to tell the story of your own experience. You may just find the spark that propels you to the next realm of confidence and poise.

This article is part of a series on developing women leaders presented in partnership with PwC. Watch Claire Shipman and “The Confidence Code” co-author Katty Kay in a live webcast presented by PwC on February 27th. Register here for the webcast, and follow the conversation on Twitter:#PwCAspire.