By Hon. Evelyn J. Laporte | Confidence Coach & Retired NYS Supreme Court JudgeOwn Your Confident Edge In the professional world, communication is currency—and trust is the foundation of every successful team. But what happens when you suspect someone isn’t telling the truth? Whether it’s a team member covering up a mistake, a colleague withholding information, or a job candidate bending the truth, being able…
Blog
How to Tell If Someone Is Lying: 7 Subtle (and Not-So-Subtle) Signs
By Hon. Evelyn J. Laporte | Confidence Coach & Retired NYS Supreme Court JudgeOwn Your Confident Edge Whether you’re a litigator, a leader, or simply navigating life, your ability to read people matters. In high-stakes situations—like the courtroom, client negotiations, or even personal relationships—knowing how to tell if someone is lying can protect your time, energy, and integrity. After decades on the bench questioning witnesses…
Why Lawyers Should Have a Coach: The Competitive Edge You Didn’t Learn in Law School
By Hon. Evelyn J. Laporte (Ret.), Confidence Coach for AttorneysOwn Your Confident Edge Let’s face it: law school taught you how to argue case law and write legal briefs—but it didn’t teach you how to manage stress, build sustainable confidence, or navigate the politics of the courtroom. That’s where having a coach changes everything. Whether you’re a new associate, an overwhelmed solo practitioner, or a…
How to Be More Confident: 5 Proven Tips That Actually Work
Let’s be real — confidence isn’t something you’re just born with. It’s a muscle, and just like any muscle, it can be trained, built, and flexed. Whether you’re stepping into a courtroom, presenting in the boardroom, or just trying to silence that inner critic — we’ve got your back. At Own Your Confident Edge, we believe confidence is your superpower. But you don’t need a…
5 Steps to Deal With Fear and Move Forward Boldly
Fear is a natural emotion One we all face, especially when we’re pushing outside our comfort zones. Whether it’s fear of failure, judgment, or the unknown, it can hold us back from stepping into our full potential. At Own Your Confident Edge, we don’t believe in avoiding fear—we believe in facing it, owning it, and walking through it with style. Here are 5 bold steps…
Resilience Is More Than a Buzzword
Life throws curveballs. Whether it’s a tough day in court, a lost opportunity, or personal setbacks, what sets successful people apart isn’t luck — it’s resilience. But here’s the truth: resilience doesn’t come from having an inflated ego or “faking it till you make it.” It’s rooted in a strong sense of self, realistic confidence, and healthy self-esteem. At Own Your Confident Edge, we believe…
The Courage to Acknowledge Our Mistakes Without Self-Blame
Mistakes are a natural part of life. However, acknowledging them can be an overwhelming experience for many, especially when we have ingrained patterns of self-blame and harsh judgment. Understanding the value of accepting our mistakes without succumbing to guilt is crucial for fostering self-confidence and growth. In this post, we will explore why embracing our mistakes with courage rather than blame can transform our approach…
The Art of Asking Help Without Feeling Incompetent
Asking for help can be challenging. In both our personal and professional lives, the fear of appearing incompetent often holds us back. Whether you’re in a workplace setting, trying to improve your skills, or simply dealing with a tough situation, the thought of asking for help can trigger feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy. However, the truth is, asking for help is a sign of strength,…
How to Deal with Rejection and Come Back Stronger
Rejection can sting. Whether it’s a job interview, a romantic interest, a business proposal, or even a creative idea—being told “no” can feel like a personal attack. But here’s the truth: Rejection is not a reflection of your worth—it’s a redirection. At Own Your Confident Edge, we believe rejection can be one of the most powerful tools for growth, resilience, and confidence building. Let’s break…
Mastering Courtroom Objections: Your Confidence Begins Here
In the courtroom, a single moment of hesitation can cost you your case. You’ve prepared your arguments, cited the right cases, and walked in ready to win—until opposing counsel crosses the line, and you’re not sure whether to object. That split-second pause? The jury hears it. The judge notices. And your client feels it. The momentum shifts. As litigators, we know objections aren’t just procedural—they’re…