A crisis of confidence has the potential to halt the growth of a viable business. How can women tackle the psychological stalker of self-limiting beliefs?

The rise of the female entrepreneur in Britain is well documented. Data proves that women as decisive, multi-tasking, team-building personalities are well suited to the corporate world. However, many women who set out to grow a business don’t quite pull it off simply because they lack confidence. Under-confident women tend to use negative language when discussing their business plans. They take rejection personally, are risk-averse and avoid speaking up for themselves. This behaviour is seen far less in men. Corporate psychologists Ben Williams and Andy Barton look at the reasons behind this and give some tips on how to improve confidence. And having established her own publishing business, Lucy Juckes, is perfectly placed to highlight the advantages of being a woman in business.