Imagine standing in front of an audience, maybe a group of colleagues or friends. You feel stuck, words escape you, and anxiety creeps in. What if I told you that confidence doesn’t come from appearances or external factors but from something deeper? Caroline Goyder talks about just this: how to unleash your authentic confidence, the kind that comes from within, enabling you to face the world with a steady voice and a light heart.

Your voice is much more than sounds and words; it’s a true musical instrument. Learn to understand and train it just as you would a guitar or a saxophone. The key is to practice: sing in the shower, in the car, or even in your kitchen. The more you practice your voice, the stronger and more confident it becomes. Don’t worry if you think you’re “off-key” or “not very expressive”—the secret lies in consistency and practice.

Have you ever noticed that those who seem the most confident are often the calmest? This is because confidence is rooted in breath: calm, deep, diaphragmatic breathing. The diaphragm is a part of the body we rarely think about, yet it’s essential for managing stress and grounding our voice. Try this: place a hand on your diaphragm, just below your chest, and breathe. You’ll feel the breath deepen, calm spreading within you, and that sensation of being anchored and present.

Start to think of breathing as a source of positive thoughts and energy. When you breathe mindfully, you start to “breathe in” emotions like calm, love, or excitement for what you want to say. Imagine speaking with a clear intention; your message will carry meaning and warmth, a wave that comes from deep within and resonates around you.

Finally, remember: those who speak confidently also know when to “keep quiet.” It’s no joke—it’s true. The ability to take your time, to close your mouth for a moment and let the breath come in, creates space within you. Only then can you find the calm that turns each word into an authentic message.

Rediscovering your voice and breath is like awakening a power that was already inside you, ready to emerge when you need it most. With a bit of training and mindfulness, you’ll be able to speak with the confidence of someone who knows what they’re saying—and why.