From Self-Doubt to Confidence: Kristen’s Path to Empowered Living Blog 98

Rebuild confidence and release self-doubt with inner healing.

Introduction

What if the voice that tells you you're not enough is just a story, and what if you could rewrite it?

In this beautiful conversation with Kristen from @timetobloom.coaching, we explore how emotional processing, self-compassion, and honest connection can help women untangle the invisible threads of self-doubt and truly feel empowered within. Kristen's story is powerful, raw, and a reminder that confidence isn't something we perform; it's something we nurture. If you've ever felt lost in motherhood, burnt out from people-pleasing, or disconnected from your worth… this one's for you, beautiful.

Introduction: Kristen, tell me about yourself, your personality, and your passion. How do you serve yourself? Also, how do you serve the community?

I'm Kristen - a woman who's walked the messy, confusing, exhausting path of inferiority, self-doubt, overwhelm, and that relentless inner voice telling me I'm "not enough." I didn't always feel strong or confident, far from it. I came from a place of lack, feeling stuck, often overwhelmed by illness and invisible pressures that weighed heavily. But I kept showing up, asking hard questions, and slowly learning to untangle those stories that kept me small.

My personality? I'm down-to-earth, fiercely loyal and caring, and honest. I believe real growth happens when we're willing to get uncomfortable, to show up for ourselves with kindness and compassion, and to face and question the stories we've been told about who we are, so we can grow into who we really want to be - unconditioned and authentic.

My passion? Helping women and children who feel invisible, stuck, or less-than. I specialise in mindset, confidence, and building people up to see and believe in themselves. I'm here to help those I work with listen to their bodies and untangle the thoughts and emotions that keep them small.

How do I serve myself?

I'm intentional about carving out time to recharge, and this has taken real practice. Coming from my years as a school teacher at a private grammar school, I was used to loading my plate with expectations and proving myself to the outside world. I said yes to too many things out of commitment, obligation, or the fear of letting others down, and often ended up regretting or resenting it later.

Now, I'm fiercely protective of the time and energy I give away. If something doesn't serve me or align with my values, I'm honest and I say no. I've learned that boundaries aren't selfish; they're essential. I recharge through effortless meditation, listening closely to my body's signals, and reflecting honestly on what's really going on inside me. When I'm grounded, calm, and connected to my inner strength, I can show up fully for others in the ways that matter.

How do I serve the community?

I create safe, warm, and inviting spaces where women feel welcome and relaxed to be themselves without judgment. Through inner growth coaching, guided meditation, and tools such as EFT tapping, mindset work, and NLP, I walk alongside women as they shed the weight of self-doubt and rediscover their voice and power. It's about practical, heartfelt support, not quick fixes, but steady, real work that leads to lasting change, so they can live fiercely, free of comparison, while stepping into a life designed by them.

 1.      You support women in shifting self-doubt and embracing deep inner work. What first led you down this path, and what lit that spark for you personally?

I started this path because I had lived the very thing I now help women overcome: endless self-doubt, the feeling of being stuck in cycles of worry, overwhelm, and life. I was carrying a heavy sense of inferiority that seeped into every part of my life, shaping how I parented, socialised, and the thoughts I allowed to take over my mind. I was exhausted emotionally and physically drained, and it was starting to wreak havoc on my entire system. For years, I tried to prove myself through achievements and people-pleasing, believing that's how I'd find worth. What lit the spark for me was noticing similar struggles in my children. That hit me hard. It stirred a deep need to stop living as if I were worthless, to step out of day-to-day survival mode, and finally feel calm, confident, and connected to who I truly am. Meditation, nervous system regulation, and deep inner growth work helped me unlock that inner confidence, peace, and self-acceptance. From that place, I knew I had to share it with other women who felt just as stuck and invisible.

2.      You speak about emotional processing and honest connection. How do these practices help women reconnect with their confidence and authenticity?

When women allow themselves to feel and process their emotions without judgment fully, it creates the space for real truth and healing. Our emotions are meant to naturally rise to a peak and then fall away. However, when we're too busy, scared, or distracted to let that happen, those feelings become stuck inside our minds and bodies. Over time, trapped emotions create a new "default" state, which can lead to physical and emotional dis-ease.

We become afraid to feel, and without feeling, healing simply cannot happen.

Emotional processing invites us to slow down and connect honestly with ourselves. When we ask, "What do I really feel? What do I think?" we begin to reconnect with our own unconditioned beliefs and values, free from the stories and expectations we were taught to accept.

If we don't learn to process what we're feeling in the moment, those emotions can transform into resentment, anxiety, and shame, turning into stories we replay on repeat. Through emotional processing and honest self-connection, women can release those old stories, rediscover their authentic voice, and live with the confidence to be themselves simply.

 3.      In your experience, what are some of the most common beliefs or stories that keep women playing small, and how do you guide them through letting go of these?

Some of the most common stories I hear are: "I'm not worthy unless I'm perfect," "They're better than me," "I'm not good enough to be invited," "They won't choose me anyway," "I'm not smart enough," or "I could never do that." And often, "My needs don't matter as much as theirs."

These beliefs usually come from early conditioning and tend to get louder when women become mums or take on different roles.

I guide women through letting go of these stories by helping them gently but clearly identify their belief systems they've carried and trace how those beliefs formed through experiences and messages from childhood and adolescence. Together, we explore the emotions tied to these stories and use meditation, inner growth coaching, and journey work to uncover and understand the roots of their mindsets, behaviour, and emotional patterns.

Through subconscious mindset shifts and practical tools, women learn to rewire these limiting beliefs, opening the door to set and achieve goals they once thought were out of reach.

It's never about rushing or forcing change. Instead, it's steady, real work that creates the space for new, empowering stories to take root and grow.

4.      For mums in particular who often feel they have lost themselves in motherhood, what is the first small step you recommend to start reclaiming their sense of self?

When working with mums who feel they have lost themselves in motherhood, the first small step I recommend is tuning into what their body needs. This always begins with helping them find calm and safety within their body and nervous system by pausing to breathe deeply, feel grounded, or settle into a moment of stillness through meditation. My first point of call is teaching them the Effortless Reset Method, an effortless meditation technique that can be practised anywhere, anytime.

Once that sense of safety is established, I guide them to explore what they think and believe about themselves, including what they like and dislike, who they are beneath all their roles and responsibilities, and who they aspire to be. It's about reclaiming identity and empowerment from within.

As they start tuning in this way, it creates space for curiosity and compassion, and the process of rediscovery truly begins. This is where belief systems start to be understood and reshaped from the inside out.

5.      Your coaching clearly invites vulnerability and self-honesty. How do you create safe spaces for women to open up, especially those who've never done this kind of work before?

I create safe spaces by holding warmth, non-judgment, and clear boundaries from the very start. I'm honest about how hard this work can be and normalise that it's okay not to have all the answers or to feel uncertain. I guide women by encouraging curiosity about their experiences rather than pressure or judgment.

A big part of this is my own vulnerability. I share my stories and experiences in real time, showing that we are all a continual work in progress. It's through sharing these stories that women feel invited to share their own, knowing they are not alone or "out there" on their own.

Building trust happens in the stories and the connections we make. Showing up consistently, listening deeply, and being there for them between sessions, women feel supported, championed, and celebrated every step of the way as they push beyond their comfort zones and into a new way of unconditional living.

6.      You and I both believe in empowering women to live on purpose. What does 'living empowered' mean to you, and how does it evolve as women grow?

To me, living empowered means living fiercely on your own terms, grounded in self-trust and clear boundaries, free from comparison or people-pleasing. It means stepping into your power with compassion, knowing that your voice matters and your needs are valid.

As women grow, this empowerment deepens. It's not a one-time destination but an ongoing evolution. It becomes less about proving your worth or ego and more about embracing vulnerability as a source of strength, resilience, and freedom. Living empowered feels quieter, more solid, and it has you saying yes more often, feeling safe and comfortable in your own skin. When you live with purpose and from a place of inner empowerment, you can navigate life's challenges from a grounded, steady place.

7.      How do you personally stay grounded and connected when doing this deep work with others? Are there rituals or self-care practices that help refill your cup?

I stay grounded through my own practice of effortless meditation, which is a daily reset for my nervous system, rather than something I have to push through. I listen closely to my body, whether that means moving, stopping, nurturing, or saying no to things that don't serve my energy. Setting firm boundaries and protecting my time are non-negotiables now.

I'm a constant work in progress. I have my own coaches and believe deeply in investing in myself; I never settle. When challenges arise, I allow myself to feel and process them instead of pushing them aside. I've learned to view my reactions differently and refuse to get stuck in victimhood or blame. I back myself because I’ve built real strength in who I am and trust in my ability to make decisions that serve me. Every day, I choose how I show up, making bold, self-led moves that keep me moving forward with confidence and clarity.

The most important thing for me is to keep investing in my own personal growth and development so I can show up fully and support those I work with.

8.      What's one myth about confidence or empowerment you wish more women would unlearn?

Feeling empowered or confident doesn't mean you never experience doubt or fear, or that you have everything figured out. Your life might feel incredibly messy or uncertain, but confidence and empowerment are about keeping going despite that. Real confidence comes from showing up in spite of fear and doubt, and choosing to work with (not against) those feelings.

To me, it's about trusting yourself enough to take the next step even when life feels uncertain. It's about looking deeper beneath the surface and championing yourself. Sometimes, all it takes is one second of bravery to keep moving forward.

Believing in and respecting yourself, fully and unconditionally, is the ultimate expression of confidence. That's what it means to feel truly empowered within.

9.      If you could offer one gentle reminder to every woman reading this who feels stuck or unsure, what would it be?

If I could offer one gentle reminder to every woman who feels stuck or unsure, it would be this: It's about discovering who you truly are beneath all the years of conditioning. It's about slowly undoing those old stories and beginning to trust yourself again. It's about stepping into your own truth and setting your own values and beliefs.

It's okay to rest, ask for help, and prioritise yourself. Healing and confidence don't happen overnight; they grow in the small, honest moments of self-compassion and kindness you offer yourself each day. They happen when you choose you and set meaningful goals, push yourself, stay accountable, practice honesty, let go of ego, and stop seeking validation outside yourself.

10.      Something I Wish People Knew About Me?

I'm not a guru or someone who's figured it all out. I'm just a woman who's been where many are: tired, uncertain, and carrying so much self-doubt. I'm also someone who's committed to walking the messy, beautiful path of growth alongside others.

I spent 28 years as a teacher, and I was a good one because I worked hard to foster self-belief and self-worth in the children I taught. I always believed that before I could reach their heads, I had to reach their hearts. But over time, I became increasingly disillusioned and unable to do the work that truly lit me up; championing people to believe that who they are is better than good enough.

I stayed in that role for far too long because I didn't believe I could do anything else. I turned up to work convinced I wasn't good enough, not smart enough, clever enough, funny enough, popular enough, attractive enough. Just so much "not enoughness." But through doing this work for myself, I shed the beliefs planted in me when I was young. I fought my way out of that rigid way of thinking and pushed myself to take one small, brave step. At 50 years old, I learned a whole new way of being, working, and learning…. and I did it.

That journey is what I'm most proud of. It's why I champion the underdog, because I've felt that struggle myself. It's also what I hope to model for my children: to keep believing, to keep working on oneself, to never settle, and to know, deeply, that one is enough.

My greatest joy now is witnessing women discover their own strength and light, and knowing I get to be a part of that. This is my heart's work, and it lights me up. I have a sense of humour, I laugh often, I'm fiercely loyal, and I show up authentically. I don't have all the answers, but I bring realness, warmth, and wholehearted support to every woman I work with.

If people are interested in following you, please provide your details:

Coures and Resources:

For children – InnerBLOOM: 6 sessions: The Budding Confidence Program

                                    12 sessions: The Blooming Journey Program

Here is a spiel for it: 

When you’re tired of second-guessing every decision, replaying every word, and looking for everyone else’s approval.

Ever find yourself thinking…

• “Did I say too much… or not enough?”
• “Maybe they’re annoyed with me…”
• “I should’ve asked someone first.”

That inner spiral is exhausting.

You don’t want to live in your head like this, but your brain just won’t give you a break:

• Learn how to pause the spiral of overthinking
• Reconnect with a sense of inner calm and clarity
• Build a quiet, steady confidence that lasts
• Calm your body when doubt takes over
• Make decisions you feel good about (without agonising later on)
• Stop looking for outside approval and start trusting yourself

It’s simple. It works. And it’s designed for the everyday moments when doubt creeps in.

✨ 5 Empowering Takeaways

• Your emotions are messengers, not enemies.
• Confidence grows when you show up, not when you feel ready.
• Boundaries protect your energy, they’re not selfish.
• Old stories can be rewritten.
• Rediscovery begins with stillness.

Top Quotes

Kristen likes these quotes

“Confidence doesn’t come from having no fear or doubt, it comes from showing up in spite of it.” Unknown

“Believing and respecting yourself is the ultimate confidence and the deepest form of feeling empowered within.” Unknown

“Healing and confidence grow in the small, honest moments of self-compassion.” Kristin Neff

“Empowerment isn’t loud. It’s quiet, solid, and steady.” Unknown

Mukti like these quotes:

“Sometimes, all it takes is one second of bravery to keep moving forward.” Unknown

“You are enough. Not because of what you achieve, but because of who you are.” Dean Ralph Sarmiento

4 Gentle Reflection Questions

1. What's one belief from childhood that no longer serves me?
2. When was the last time I truly felt connected to my inner self?
3. Where in my life am I ready to shift from self-doubt to self-confidence?
4. How would my day-to-day life look and feel different if I showed up with certainty, personal power, and conviction?

Conclusion

So many of us mothers are walking around with invisible weights, old stories, unspoken beliefs, and fears we've inherited or absorbed, and yet we keep showing up for everyone else. What Kristen reminds us of is this: true empowerment doesn't mean being fearless. It means being honest, being curious, and showing up anyway.

Confidence grows in the tiny, tender moments we choose ourselves. Healing doesn't happen all at once; it happens each time we pause, breathe, and say, "I matter too."

Let this be your sign to take that next small, brave step.

You are not alone, and you are more than enough 💫

🌙 Blog 99 drops Sept 28 with the incredible Heidi, a bold, bushwalking, brain-chemistry-whispering naturopath who's rewriting the story of PMS and PMDD one cycle at a time.

If you've ever felt like your hormones are running the show, this soulful, science-backed chat will feel like a warm hug and a permission slip. 💫

Live your life on purpose,
💛 Mukti

“Never settle. Keep believing, keep working on yourself, and know deeply, you are enough.” Unknown