Tips for building self-confidence

While some people are naturally confident, others are not.

Confidence is an act that can be learned. Self–confidence is trusting in your abilities, qualities, and judgments.

It is a big part of our lives as it influences our actions and behaviours.

It also dictates to an extent, how people perceive and relate with us. Having a healthy amount of self–confidence sets you up for greatness.

How then do you build your self-confidence?

As cliché as this sounds, it cannot be overemphasised. Self-belief is the first step to take towards achieving self-confidence.

Believe in yourself even when no one around you does: Be your cheerleader. Your dreams are valid, own them!

A smile can change everything. Aside from brightening up your face, smiling sends positive spirits of happiness and contentment to your brain. This makes you feel good about yourself and lightens your mood throughout the day.

Smiles are contagious. Notice how a random smile from even a stranger makes you feel?

That’s the power of a smile. So, smile more often and you could just make your day or someone else’s day better.

Be thankful for your life and for everything that you have and care about.

Learn to appreciate your personal growth and don’t forget to thank those who have helped you on your journey. Keep a journal and write down your thoughts and feelings, especially what you are most grateful for.

Gratitude helps you feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.

Affirmations are positive statements that you repeat to yourself to remind you of who you are or who you want to become.

Affirmations help combat negative thoughts and feelings and replace them with some good energy.

Daily affirmations help you to achieve, motivate you, and manifest what it is you want in life.

Every morning and before you go to bed, practice affirmations and notice how this simple habit will completely change your life.

Be kind to yourself

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Forgive yourself when you make mistakes and move forward. Learn from your past mistakes but don’t let them steal your joy and peace.

Practice self-care, celebrate your little wins, and treat yourself from time to time. When you think you need a massage, go and get it or go out when you need a day out or a weekend getaway. Do not underestimate the power of relaxation.

Do something you love every day; it’ll make you feel happier and less stressed.

Exercising and eating healthy are great ways to look and feel more confident about ourselves as these are essential in maintaining physical and mental health and well-being.

They also help if you are trying to prevent excessive weight gain or achieve your desired body goal.

Apart from that, healthier lifestyles are associated with improved sleep and mood.

Challenge yourself

Try out new things and take up new opportunities; as you practise them, you learn and get better at doing them.

You will feel more confident when you succeed at completing rather difficult or unfamiliar tasks and will soon move from being a novice to becoming a pro.

Pay attention to your looks

Looking good has always been one of the easiest ways to feel good about yourself. Always wear clothes that you are comfortable in and that suit your body type and skin tone.

Also, consider the weather in informing your choice of clothes. Dress appropriately for different functions: do not overdress nor should you underdress for any occasion. Remember to keep it simple and classy.

These are some easy steps to building your self–confidence. Hope you enjoyed reading. Do you have any bonus tips?

The writer is a Communications Specialist and entrepreneur. E-mail: priscilla.fumadorh@gmail.com