#24: How do I build up my confidence? - with Parveen Downer (Career Coach, PM instructor, Speaker, Stand-up Comedian)

In this episode, Francesca Cortesi and Parveen Downer explore the concept of confidence, emphasizing that it is a skill that can be developed rather than an innate trait. They discuss the importance of taking action to build confidence, the role of mindset in overcoming inner criticism, and practical strategies such as rejection therapy and creating a confidence playlist. The conversation highlights the significance of consistency and preparation in cultivating a confident mindset, encouraging listeners to take small steps towards building their confidence.CHAPTERS00:46 Understanding Confidence: A Skill, Not a Trait03:43 The Confidence Loop: Action, Competence, and Growth 06:41 Overcoming Inner Criticism: Strategies for Speaking Up09:44 The Role of Mindset and Preparation in Confidence 12:53 Building Confidence Through Small Steps15:44 Rejection Therapy: Embracing No for Growth 18:35 Practical Tips for Cultivating Confidence21:34 Consistency is Key: The Path to Lasting Confidence24:47 Final Thoughts: Small Actions Lead to Big ChangesOUR GUESTParveen Downer, Career Coach, PM instructor, Speaker, Stand-up ComedianParveen Downer is a product manager turned confidence coach with a distinctly portfolio-shaped career. After building her reputation in tech — across operations, regulated industries, and highly technical product roles — she now coaches ambitious professionals to speak up, get noticed, and lead with impact. She teaches product management, designs a circular fashion line celebrating cultural heritage, and occasionally tests her own confidence on stage as a stand-up comedian. Blending evidence-based coaching with real-world product experience (and a healthy dose of humour), Parveen helps quietly brilliant people show the world what they’re capable of.SHOWNOTESMark Manson on confidence: https://markmanson.net/how-to-be-confidentThe Quietly Confident club: https://www.consultwithparveen.com/the-quietly-confident-club/Rejection therapy: https://www.rejectiontherapy.com/100-days-of-rejection-therapyParveen’s confidence playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6OtMyKLk7vj2izFiWpZM9M?si=12b56610943448d5COOK WHILE LISTENINGParvee’s go-to pancakes, worth watching the entire video to get all the best tips:https://www.epicurious.com/video/watch/epicurious-101-the-best-way-to-make-perfect-pancakes