“Confidence isn’t walking into a room thinking you’re better than everyone else, it’s walking in without needing to compare at all.”
Weekly STEMspiration ⭐️
The Psychology of Confidence
I read a book recently called ‘The Alter Ego Effect’ by Todd Herman which talks about creating and using an alter ego to become a more confident, and stronger version of ourselves when we need it most. Here’s his website (but it’s available as an audiobook for free on Spotify).
Many high-achievers have used this method to bring their best selves to their work – Beyonce (alter ego: Sasha Fierce), Kobe Bryant (alter-ego: Black Mamba) are just two examples.
This made me think about how much we can control how we think of ourselves, simply by using an ‘ideal’ version of ourselves that we would like to be. The more you behave as the person you want to be, the more you become them.
Cognitive-behavioural psychology backs this up and has shown that acting confident (speaking up, taking on challenges) can actually rewire your brain to feel more confident over time.
👉 Key takeaway: Confidence isn’t just a personality trait, it’s a habit you can build. The science is clear: small, repeated actions shift your mindset and reshape how you see yourself.
Community Updates 💜
10 days to go…
This next meet-up has grew so much bigger than the first, with a total of 18+ women booking their tickets! Our first event in July started with just 5 women so I am ecstatic that we’re already reaching so many more people in our community.
The next meet-up is planned for Thursday 25th September!
Here’s the ticket link (they’re free), there’s only 3 tickets left to grab, and that’s after I called the venue to see if we could add an extra 5 than originally planned! >>> Get your tickets here
Exciting Opportunities 👷♀️👩🔬
3 mistakes that hold women back in STEM
- Women are statistically less likely to ask for raises/promotions, so don’t be afraid to speak out, I promise you it’s not rude! As they say in Newcastle… “Shy bairns get nowt”.
- Thinking you need to meet 100% of the job description – Don’t let that hold you back. I guarantee you, you’re more than capable.
- Trying to do it alone – tap in to your community (like this!), friends and family for support when you feel lost.
With these in mind – here’s some of the latest opportunities out there…
| SCIENCE NHS – Pathology Quality Coordinator – Biochemistry Newcastle Upon Tyne – £31,049 ENGINEERING Stantec Graduate & Placement Opportunities Applications now open for 2026! Red Engineering Graduate ICT Design Engineer, Newcastle Applications now open for 2026! MATHS Armstrong Watson – AAT Trainee Accountant Newcastle Upon Tyne |
| Thank you for being part of FeminSTEM! Every week, I’m amazed at the passion and curiosity in this community. Wishing you a confident week ahead ✨ Join our next meet-up >>> Get your tickets here |
Thanks for being part of feminSTEM.
Erin 💜
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