From Victim to Empowered: Using Curiosity to Reclaim Your Confidence at Work

In today’s workplaces, not all leaders lead with care. Some rely on intimidation, dismissiveness, or subtle tactics that erode confidence. For those on the receiving end, the impact can be profound: insecurity, nervousness, and self-doubt. Over time, these experiences chip away at both confidence and performance.

Science tells us we are not powerless.

Job insecurity and well-being
Research shows that job insecurity strongly undermines psychological well-being and work engagement. Yet one factor consistently buffers this impact: self-efficacy — our belief in our ability to act and succeed (Pires, 2025, MDPI). Building even small actions of agency restores confidence and resilience.

Curiosity as a power state
Instead of assuming intent (“my boss wants me to quit”), curiosity invites perspective-taking. Cognitive reframing research highlights that exploring alternate explanations reduces stress responses and broadens problem-solving capacity (Fredrickson, 2001, American Psychologist).

Questions such as:

• “What pressures might my boss be under?”
• “What evidence supports or challenges my assumptions?”
• “How can I validate my feelings without making them the whole story?”

This shift from victimhood to investigator not only clarifies the situation but helps regulate emotional intensity.

Assertiveness as prevention
Assertive communication — expressing needs clearly, calmly, and respectfully — creates boundaries while reinforcing self-worth. French research on assertiveness shows it protects against harassment and role ambiguity (El Massioui, 2019, Thèse).

Practical step: Begin with “When you do X, I feel Y, and I would prefer Z.” Small, consistent practices rebuild confidence and protect your integrity.

By cultivating curiosity and assertiveness, professionals can transform insecurity into clarity and reclaim power in real time — even in challenging environments.

#Confidence #Curiosity #EmotionalAgility

Are you facing a leader or colleague whose behaviour undermines your worth? Let’s talk. I help leaders and professionals build resilience and self-regulation with science-based tools. Contact me here.

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