Confidence is often mistaken as something people are born with, a natural trait that some have and others lack. In reality, confidence is built over time, shaped quietly through repeated practice, small risks and consistent effort.
Think about the first time you tried something new, speaking in front of a class, participating in a competition or even answering a question aloud. The hesitation, the self-doubt and the fear of making mistakes are all part of the process. But with each attempt, something shifts. What once felt unfamiliar begins to feel manageable. What once caused anxiety starts to feel routine.
This is the power of repetition.
When individuals engage in an activity repeatedly, they not only improve their skill but also reduce uncertainty. Practice creates familiarity, and familiarity builds comfort. Over time, this comfort transforms into confidence, not because the task becomes easy, but because it becomes known.
In school environments, this process often unfolds naturally. Students who participate actively in activities, be it debates, sports, arts or leadership roles, gradually develop a stronger sense of self-belief. Each experience, whether successful or not, adds to their ability to handle the next challenge better.
An alumna of Apeejay School, Saket reflects on this through her own school journey, where active participation played a key role in shaping her confidence. Reflecting on her experience, Prerna Mehra, a 2014 batch alumna, shared, “Pitching again and again helped me become more confident.”
Her words highlight a simple yet powerful truth: confidence is not built in a single moment, it is built in repetition. The more you put yourself out there, the more you learn how to navigate situations, communicate effectively and trust your own abilities.
For students, this is an important reminder that confidence does not require perfection. It requires participation. Saying yes to opportunities, even when you feel unsure, is often the first step towards growth. Mistakes are not setbacks; they are part of the learning curve that strengthens confidence over time.
At the same time, repeated practice also builds resilience. Not every attempt will lead to success, but each one contributes to experience. Over time, this experience reduces fear and increases adaptability, two key components of confidence.