Building Confidence

Confidence is one of the most powerful tools a footballer can have. It shapes how you play on the pitch and how you handle challenges off it.
In fact, it’s the number one reason players come to me for support.
So, what is confidence? You know it when you see it — in the way a player walks onto the field, takes on the opposition, and plays like everything is on their side. Confidence is a mix of self-belief, understanding your abilities, and resilience.
Here’s the thing: confidence isn’t something you get once and keep forever. It goes up and down — and that’s completely normal. The key is noticing when it dips and knowing how to build it back up.
We start by getting a clear picture of your confidence right now. The attached Confidence Checklist helps with this. Answer honestly, and the score chart at the end will show whether you’re currently in the high, medium, or low range.
Remember — this isn’t about judging yourself. What matters is what we do next. This score is just a starting point for building and strengthening your confidence.
It’s also a good idea to check in with this sheet every month or two. Confidence, like form or fitness, can change. Tracking it helps you notice when you might need a little extra mental training — just like you’d strengthen a weaker muscle at the gym.
Alongside this, you’ll find a Strengths Sheet. This helps you spot the areas where you’re already strong. Knowing your strengths boosts belief in yourself and reminds you of the qualities you bring to the game. Spend a few minutes filling it out and keep it somewhere you can see often — it’s a simple but powerful way to remind yourself of everything you already do well, while we keep building the areas that need a bit more work.
Confidence isn’t magic — it’s trainable, just like your first touch or your fitness. There are simple things you can start doing to build it:
Talk to yourself the right way — swap “I can’t do this” for “I’ve got this.” Back yourself.
Use your imagination — picture yourself scoring, making that key tackle, or hitting the perfect pass. Your brain learns from those images.
Set small goals — focus on little wins; they add up to big confidence.
See setbacks differently — not picked? Made a mistake? It’s not the end — it’s part of the process. Learn and move on.
Take feedback smartly — focus on what helps you improve, and let the rest go.
Don’t fear self-doubt — notice it, accept it, and then get back to your game.
Train tough situations — practice pressure penalties or 1v1s so game situations feel easier.
Back each other — swap feedback, encourage teammates, and grow confidence together.
In this session, you’ll also find drills and exercises you can try with mates or teammates to build confidence. Plus, a worksheet to help boost your self-esteem, learn how to bounce back from setbacks, and highlight the areas of your game where you already feel strong.
Key techniques from Module 2 to try when confidence feels low include: positive self-talk, the victory playbook, and mental practice.
Remember, confidence doesn’t just make you a better footballer — it makes you stronger in life. With practice, self-belief, and the right mindset, you’ll not only raise your game, you’ll unlock your full potential