40 Practical And Actionable Ways To Boost Your Self-Confidence
Confidence is a funny thing. Other people can often see things in us that we can’t see in ourselves. A little extra confidence can get you pretty far in life, as it can make it easier to communicate with others, and allow you to be fearless when going after the things you want most.
]If you’re trying to be the best possible version of yourself (duh, who isn’t?), then a good place to start is to consider how you might be able to boost your self-confidence. Here are some ideas to consider…
Knowing That You Are Enough
Being enough means that there is nothing wrong with you. The true you, the one hidden behind the mask you wear. It means that you, flaws and all, are beautiful just the way you are. Be yourself! Everyone else is already taken.
Traveling Alone
It may seem quite scary at first, but traveling alone can be such a rewarding experience! Not only will you be forced to face your fears and solve any unexpected problems on your own, but you will also grow as a person by getting to know yourself better.
Believing In Yourself
Only you know what’s best for you, and that’s why you should always be your own biggest cheerleader. Self-belief is the fuel that will keep you going when challenges arise. You will be able to face problems head-on when you believe in yourself.
Thinking of Your Problems as Challenges and Opportunities
The problems you face are only as hard as you make them out to be. Instead of falling into a negative mindset about it, which includes moping and losing motivation, try seeing it as blessing in disguise, one that will lead you to your goal. So, turn those lemons into some tasty lemonade!
Surrounding Yourself With People Who Value You
Remember, those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t. People who see your value will constantly remind you of all your wonderful qualities, even when you don’t see it. Because they only want the best for you, you won’t be bombarded my negativity- confidence’s number one enemy.
Tapping Into Your Creative Side
There’s no right or wrong way to be creative and so, you’re free to do as you please. Having a creative outlet is not only fun and relaxing, but it teaches you how to take risks and how to express yourself without fear or judgment. And being confident with yourself is the first step in being confident around others.
Spending Time Alone
If you’re scared of being alone, just remember that solitude doesn’t equate to being lonely. Learn how to enjoy your own company by engaging in your favorite hobbies, watching movies, reading books or meditating. By spending time with yourself, you’ll begin to love yourself a little more-something that’ll help build your confidence.
Celebrating Your Successes
Doesn’t it feel good when you accomplish something? There’s no need to downplay your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your successes, whether alone or with friends, will lift your spirits and keep you motivated for future goals.
Adopting Positive Affirmations
Getting rid of the negative thoughts you have about yourself isn’t something that happens overnight, but you can take the first step by replacing them with positive statements. This will not only improve your self-esteem but will allow you to bounce back quicker after a setback.
Writing Down Your Goals
When self-doubt creeps in, it can be easy to give up. Writing down your goals will keep you on track, especially when life seems pointless, your large goals seem far-fetched and when it all doesn’t seem worth it.
Trusting Yourself
Self-trust is not just something you’re born with, but a quality that is developed over time. After many bad experiences, it can be hard to trust your own judgment. Taking risks and spending time with yourself are two ways you can repair your self-trust.
Doing Things That Take You Out of Your Comfort Zone
Only when you leave that safe bubble will you know what you’re truly capable of. You’ll discover more about yourself, become more creative, and learn how to adapt to various situations. Take that leap of faith and try that thing you’ve always been scared of!
Mentoring Someone
Learning is a two-way street. You get to share your knowledge with someone, while they teach you something in return. Realizing that you don’t know everything pushes to look within and become better, increasing your confidence with time.
Loving Yourself
Self-love is not only thinking highly of yourself, but also fully accepting who you are, warts and all. As you fully embrace who you are, you become less sensitive towards other people’s opinions. Be gentle with yourself and become you own best friend.
Getting Organized
Even if it’s not your strongest point, it’s entirely possible to become organized. Having too much clutter in your physical space can create a sense of chaos in your mind. Being organized will increase your energy, productivity, and reduce stress.
Empowering Yourself With Knowledge
Ever heard of the saying that knowledge is power? Well, it’s true! By knowing your stuff, you’ll be empowered to speak more confidently, especially in a group setting. So hit the books and put some reading time in!
Being Prepared
There’s nothing wrong with being a risk-taker, but there are times where it’s important to be prepared. Having some idea of what to expect will help calm your nerves and reduce stress. It also enhances your resilience, flexibility and self-discipline.
Going After Your Dreams
Some of the happiest people are the ones who’ve made their dreams happen. What do you desire the most? You can dream about it all day long, but think about how satisfying it will be once you make it happen.
Allow Yourself to Make Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes. That’s how you grow. It’s a part of life that will lead to self-growth. Don’t be so hard on yourself, and know that making a mistake means that you actually tried- and that’s all that really counts.
Meeting Like-Minded People
Surrounding yourself with people who share your values and morals will help keep you on the right path. They’ll also empower you in a way that people who don’t think the way you do would never be able to do. So find your tribe, and when you do, cherish them.
Meditating
Your thoughts are the only thing you can fully control. Meditation helps quiet your mind and keeps those racing thoughts under control. It decreases depression and anxiety, while improving your overall happiness and self-control.
Smiling
Along with laughter, smiling is a quick and easy way to boost your mood. Not just yours but others as well. This makes you seem more likeable, trustworthy, and attractive. Always do something that puts a smile on your face.
Having Good Hygiene
When you look good, you feel good. Good hygiene is not just for personal health, but for the benefit of others as well. Bad habits such as not taking care of your teeth lead to a bad smile and as pointed above smiling benefits you and those around you.
Setting Boundaries
Setting boundaries with others shows them how you want to be treated. It shows them that you are assertive and that there is a line that should not be crossed. Some might be angry, but most will respect you for not allowing yourself to be treated like a doormat.
Allowing Yourself to Have Fun
As the saying goes, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, or Jill a dull girl. There’s no need to be so serious all the time. Doing something fun will improve your mood, increase your energy levels and keep your life in balance. It’ll also open you up to meeting new people.
Standing Tall
Without realizing it, your posture gives away a lot about your mental state. Unhappy and insecure people are more likely to slouch and lower their heads, while confident people carry themselves upright. Try emulating that habit more.
Looking People In the Eyes
A lack of eye contact is one of the most obvious signs of low self-confidence. Luckily, it’s a learned habit that can be broken. Try maintaining eye contact for at least ten seconds before looking away. Eventually, you’ll be able to do it for entire conversations.
Not Worrying About Pleasing People
There’s nothing wrong with being nice, but trying to please everyone is a sure way to drive yourself crazy. Don’t worry about trying to please everyone. It can’t be done- ever. Save that energy for something that’ll please you.
Giving Back
Giving back not only makes you feel good, but it gives you a sense of purpose and satisfaction. This could include anything from giving money to your favorite charity or volunteering your time at a local shelter.
Speaking Up
Don’t shy away from speaking up; whether that’s expressing an opinion or standing up for yourself, especially when someone is trying to take advantage of you. Always stay calm and use an assertive tone of voice and don’t let others guilt trip for saying what’s on your mind.
Walking Away from Toxic People
Toxic people bring you down and do absolutely nothing for your self-confidence. Getting rid of them should be one of the first things you do to let some light and positivity into your life. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to love and believe in yourself more easily.
Looking At Failures As Lessons
Sometimes, it’s hard to not let life’s failure get you down. It’s a lot easier to wallow in your sadness and think about why bad things keep happening to you. But there’s a better way. Instead of thinking of these things as failures, look at them as minor setbacks and lessons instead.
Exercising
Exercising is not just about making yourself look good, it boosts your confidence every time you feel stronger, reach a new milestone, and of course, when you go down a dress size or two.
Letting Go of Negativity
Negative and toxic people aren’t the only things you should be letting go of. Almost anything that brings you grief or unnecessary stress should be let go of. That includes living beings, a horrible job or an unhappy relationship.
Being Optimistic
People are surprised at how much easier it is to be confident when you’re an optimist. Looking on the bright side douses fears you may have, making you more willing to do something out of the ordinary.
Laughing At Yourself
Laughing at yourself is not an easy thing to do for most, but it’s one of the most freeing things you can do for yourself. It helps with self-confidence because if you can find humor in the things you do, it’ll be easy to accept that others are doing the same. Instead of feeling bad for making a mistake, you’ll be able to laugh at it along with your friends.
Not Comparing Yourself to Others
One of the worst things you can do for your self-confidence is to compare yourself to someone else. Even if you look like someone else, you aren’t the same on the inside- and that’s the stuff that truly counts. So, stop beating yourself up for not looking or acting a certain way. Just be your perfectly imperfect self.
Not Trying to Impress Others
Another thing that’ll get you into trouble where self-confidence is concerned is trying to impress and please other people. Doing this means you want their approval and that requires shaping yourself into the person they want you to be-not the person you truly are. If you want to love yourself more, stop caring about what others think.
Acknowledging Your Strengths
Acknowledging your strengths will give you something to be proud about. There’s just something about knowing that you have a skill that makes a person feel good- as it should.
Understanding that Everyone is Human
The one thing everyone needs to understand is that we are all humans. Sure we look different, come from different backgrounds and like different things, but when you get to the bottom of things, we’re all human. So don’t be afraid or intimidated to let your true colors show.