Have you ever thought, “Who am I to be teaching yoga?”
If so, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for feeling that way.
But here’s the truth: confidence doesn’t come first. It comes from experience. And in Episode 29 of Yoga Teacher Confidential, I share exactly how I built confidence through years of imperfect teaching, plus the mindset shifts and tools that helped me grow.
Why You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Effective
When I taught my second-ever yoga class, it wasn’t planned. My teacher didn’t show up, so I stepped in. Was I qualified? Barely. Was I confident? Not even close.
But I did it anyway—and that was the beginning.
What changed everything for me was shifting from trying to impress my students to focusing on serving them. That’s a key principle of the S.E.R.V.E. Method we use inside Comfort Zone Yoga.
Confidence Comes from Structure and Repetition
If you’re constantly reinventing the wheel every time you teach, you’ll stay stuck in uncertainty. Instead, I recommend using a supportive framework—like the 6-4-2 sequencing method (six spinal movements, four leg lines, two core actions). It gives you a grounded plan to walk into class with clarity—even when you’re not feeling 100%.
Add repetition and variation week to week, and you’ll see your confidence grow quickly. It’s not cheating. It’s smart teaching.
5 Practical Ways to Build Confidence as a Yoga Teacher
1. Reframe self-doubt. Think of it as a sign of growth, not weakness.
2. Start before you’re ready. Experience is the best teacher.
3. Use structure to feel grounded. Try the 6-4-2 method in your next class.
4. Repeat and refine your sequences. Let go of the need to always create from scratch.
5. Trust your students. Your role is to offer options, not control their experience.
Let This Be Your Reminder
You don’t have to be perfect to be effective.
You just have to show up, be present, and keep learning.
Want mentorship, structure, and a supportive community of yoga teachers who get it? Join Mastering the Art of Yoga Sequencing, and get on-demand pep talks.
