Confidence isn’t a feeling you find. It’s a trust you build, one brave action at a time.

About Ernelita Dacumos: Ernelita “Ernie” Dacumos is an International Speaker, Author, Radio Show Host, Coach, Facilitator, and Trainer certified through the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team. With over a decade of experience in the healthcare industry, she fulfills her greater purpose of empowering individuals to rise into their full potential.

Once a “shy introvert,” Ernie transformed into a “confident introvert” who now leads masterminds, facilitates workshops, and speaks on international stages. From stuttering in small groups to co-hosting The Leader’s Edge, an international radio show, her journey reflects the power of growth, courage, and self-trust.

Known as a confidence mentor and author of Unapologetically You: How to Stop Shrinking and Discover the Power Within You, Ernie creates safe spaces for learning and equips others with tangible tools for personal and professional growth—showing that confidence and continuous development are accessible to anyone willing to take action.

In this episode, Chabidaye and Ernelita discuss:

• Understanding shyness and introversion clearly
• Building confidence through repeated action
• Reclaiming self-confidence without guilt
• Practicing confidence with tools, support, and intention

Key Takeaways:

• Introversion is about how you recharge, not whether you like people. Shyness shows up as hesitation to initiate, speak, or step forward. Recognizing the difference allows shyness to be treated as a skill to strengthen, not a fixed identity.
• Confidence is not a personality trait but the courage to act despite fear. Self-doubt never disappears; its volume lowers when action becomes habitual. Repetition builds skill, and skill steadily turns into confidence.
• Self-confidence begins with trusting and prioritizing yourself first. Caring for yourself is not selfish because burnout harms everyone you serve. Filling your own cup creates the capacity to lead, support, and give sustainably.
• Mentors, coaches, and faith help you borrow belief until your own grows. Introverted leaders build trust by asking questions and involving others. Simple habits like acting before perfect clarity and celebrating progress reinforce confidence over time.

"You cannot give what you do not have. When your cup is empty, it starts with us first. Hence it's called self-confidence, not confidence... You have to have that conviction, that belief, that trust in yourself first, in order for you to give that and relate it to others." —  Ernelita Dacumos

Connect with Ernelita Dacumos: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/confidentlyyouwithernie/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/confidentlyyouwithernie/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernelita-dacumos-confidently-you-llc-667134233/

CONNECT WITH CHABIDAYE:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chabidaye.ramnath.3

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chabidaye/

Website: https://leadandlift.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chabidayejaglalramnath/

Show notes by Podcastologist: Justine Talla

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.