Rebuilding Confidence: How a Neurodivergent Leader Reclaimed Self-Trust at Work
The Challenge: Confidence Knocked in a New Role
A client stepping into a challenging new role faced a situation many neurodivergent leaders encounter. The role offered high autonomy but minimal support, and an unsupportive manager coupled with subtle undermining left her anxious and doubting her own capabilities. Over a decade of accumulated experience felt shaken, and every decision seemed fraught with uncertainty.
Despite a strong track record, she struggled to trust her judgement and found herself overthinking interactions, questioning her competence, and feeling directionless. Workplace politics and unclear expectations only added to the pressure, making it difficult to navigate challenges effectively.
Shifting the Narrative
We began by mapping out her achievements and tangible successes. Using strategies from the Neurodivergent Confidence Rescue Pack, she reflected on past experiences where she had excelled, recognising that her capabilities remained intact. This helped shift her mindset from self-doubt to evidence-based confidence.
Next, we focused on asserting boundaries and practising self-advocacy. Through structured exercises, she learned to communicate her needs and priorities without guilt, balancing professionalism with self-respect.
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It can feel silly in this day and age but tracking wins inside a notebook forces your brain to slow down to hand-writing pace and acknowledge them.
Reclaiming Confidence and Purpose
Over several sessions, she applied these strategies to real workplace scenarios. By tracking small wins and reflecting on each interaction, she rebuilt her confidence step by step. She began to approach tasks with purpose rather than fear, and her sense of direction and capability strengthened.
The transformation was evident in both her mindset and her approach to work. Anxiety was replaced with clarity, uncertainty gave way to intentional action, and she learned to trust her own judgement again. The most powerful realisation? She’s never not been strong enough.
Key Takeaways:
Reclaim capability: Reflect on evidence-based achievements to reinforce self-trust.
Advocate confidently: Learn to assert needs and priorities without shame.
Track wins: Small daily victories build momentum and confidence.
Shift mindset: Replace fear and self-doubt with purposeful action.
Integrate strategies: Apply structured approaches between sessions for lasting impact.
This case study demonstrates how neurodivergent leaders can rebuild confidence and navigate high-pressure roles effectively. By combining reflection, practical strategies, and deliberate action, it’s possible to reclaim capability, trust your judgment, and move forward with clarity.
Ready to Reclaim Your Confidence?
If you’re a neurodivergent professional looking to strengthen self-trust and navigate challenges with confidence, book a call today. Discover your leadership strengths, build your influence, and take your next role with confidence.