Mindy Kaling emphasizes the importance of hard work in building self-confidence, arguing that one cannot truly feel confident without putting in the effort. She compares this notion to a character from "Downton Abbey," highlighting the disconnect between confidence and labor. In her view, confidence is not an inherent trait but something that must be earned through dedication and commitment to one's goals.

Kaling points out that every highly confident and successful individual she has encountered has been deeply committed to their work, often described as a 'workaholic.' She likens confidence to respect, stating that just as respect must be earned, so too must confidence be cultivated through hard work and achievement.