Books › The Confidence Code
The Confidence Code
272 pages
A science-backed pep talk that dismantles imposter syndrome and hands you the blueprint for self-assurance.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like sitting down with two fiercely intelligent mentors who have seen the data, lived the struggle, and are ready to hand you the playbook. The pace is brisk and purposeful, moving seamlessly between fascinating neurological research and highly relatable anecdotes from high-achieving women who still battle imposter syndrome. The mood is analytical yet deeply empowering, replacing vague platitudes with concrete, actionable insights. It doesn't just tell you to believe in yourself; it explains exactly why you don't and how to rewire your brain so you can. Perfect for professional women tired of second-guessing themselves, this is a pragmatic, forward-looking read that leaves you feeling energized, validated, and ready to take up space.
- Mood
- empowering
- analytical
- forward-looking
- reflective
- Tone
- encouraging
- journalistic
- pragmatic
- authoritative
- empathetic
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- overcoming self-doubt · the gender confidence gap · rewiring thought patterns · professional empowerment · action over perfection
- The writing
- Clear, accessible, and engaging, blending scientific reporting with relatable personal anecdotes.
- The arc
- Moves from a frustrating recognition of systemic and internal barriers to an energized, actionable sense of empowerment.
- Who it's for
- Professional women looking to understand their own hesitations and seeking practical, science-backed strategies to step into their power.
Content notes
- workplace sexism
- imposter syndrome
About the book
"Working women today are better educated and more well qualified than ever before. Yet men still predominate in the corporate world. In The Confidence Code, Claire Shipman and Katty Kay argue that the key reason is confidence. Combining cutting-edge research in genetics, gender, behavior, and cognition--with examples from their own lives and those of other successful women in politics, media, and business--Kay and Shipman go beyond admonishing women to "lean in."Instead, they offer the inspiration and practical advice women need to close the gap and achieve the careers they want and deserve" --
Description from Open Library.
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