Confidence is a Skill We Build

What is confidence?

Most of us think of confidence as a feeling—a surge of self-belief or a quiet inner assurance. But what if I told you that confidence isn’t something you feel, but something you build?

This powerful idea was highlighted in Mel Robbins’ The Science of Confidence course on LinkedIn, and it perfectly aligns with what we teach at Columbus Fashion Academy. Confidence is not about being perfect or always knowing the answer. It’s about trying. It’s about the courage to take risks, stumble, learn, and grow. Confidence is a practice—an act of self-belief that strengthens each time we stretch beyond our comfort zones.

Teaching confidence through creativity

At Columbus Fashion Academy, we’ve witnessed firsthand how confidence grows when kids and adults alike are encouraged to try new things. Sewing for the first time, presenting their designs on a runway, or even picking up a piece of fabric and asking, What can I turn this into? These moments are less about the finished product and more about the process: the discovery, the mistakes, the learning, and the courage to stand back up and try again.

That’s why perfection is not what we teach. Instead, we teach resilience. We teach kids (and remind adults) to embrace imperfection as part of the journey. A crooked seam or an uneven hem isn’t failure—it’s proof of trying, and that trying is where confidence begins.

The ripple effect of confidence

Building confidence isn’t just about personal growth; it’s a gift that multiplies. When someone believes in their ability to create, they start to see possibilities everywhere. They inspire others to try, to imagine, and to believe in themselves. Confidence, like creativity, is contagious—and in our programs, we aim to spark it in every individual who walks through our doors.

Let’s redefine confidence together

The world often tells us that confidence comes from achievements, external validation, or being “better” than others. But real confidence—the kind that transforms lives—comes from within. It’s built through action, nurtured by curiosity, and sustained by community.

At Columbus Fashion Academy, we don’t just teach fashion; we teach life skills, creativity, and the art of believing in yourself. Because confidence, like creativity, is a superpower. And the best part? It’s one we can all learn to build.