Many of us tend to measure our self-esteem by comparing ourselves to others. However, when we fail to reach the ideals we have set for ourselves, our family, our community, or society, this often leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and low mood. We may become self-critical, experience shame, and feel different from others. While improving 'self-esteem' is something we may feel we need, it is not necessarily what is needed. This is because self-esteem is often tied to the moments when things go well, but it can let us down when things do not go as expected. In contrast, confidence, which is built from self-understanding, can help us when things are going well and make us more resilient during difficulties. This book uses the ideas and practices of Compassion-Focused Therapy to help build confidence. Attention is also given to the difficulties that often accompany the emotional state of low confidence, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and anger.