It’s rare to meet someone who can truthfully claim to have the perfect levels of confidence. Being sure of yourself without coming across as arrogant or smug might seem like a fine balancing act, but this stems from a misunderstanding of what confidence actually is. A healthy level of self-esteem and the ability to maintain reasonable boundaries is how you measure true confidence. Although it isn’t easy, there are methods and strategies you can use to improve your self-esteem which leads to higher confidence. Here are just a few tips to help you get started.
1. Notice Your Achievements
If you set yourself up for success, you help to create the narrative that you are someone who achieves their goals. Our inner stories about ourselves have a surprisingly large impact upon how we view not only ourselves but the world around us. By setting goals and making sure you achieve them, you provide evidence for the narrative that you are capable of success. These goals don’t need to be huge or impressive, but should be realistic and achievable. Reward yourself for hitting your milestones to reinforce the confidence boost that each little success will give you.
2. Feel More Comfortable in Your Body
A great way to increase your confidence is to improve how you feel in your body, and there are plenty of ways to do that. Here are some examples:
● Food and Diet
What you put into your body has a huge effect on how you feel both physically and emotionally. You can learn more about the keto diet or look online for meals that are both appealing and good for you. It all depends on your personal goals and the time you can commit to achieving them. Don’t punish yourself for falling short; instead, continue trying and pay attention to your progress.
● Style Yourself
Take the time to invest in clothing that makes you feel comfortable and powerful, whatever that means for you. Good hygiene and healthy posture go a long way to making you appear more confident, and how you dress reflects this too. Don’t waste money on fleeting trends or clothes you aren’t completely happy with. Properly consider what you do and don’t like to discover your true sense of style.
● Improve Your Fitness
Whatever skill or strength level you’re at, it’s important to exercise not only for your body but for your mind. Find an activity you can easily build into your existing routine so you keep
it up. There are many links between regular exercise and increased happiness. The happier you are, the more confident you’ll feel, and this can start with a good exercise routine.
3. Create Closer Connections
Even the most introverted people require social contact every now and then. Making time to interact with loved ones reminds you that you are worthy of attention and respect. Seek opportunities to meet new people and build connections through shared interests. There’s nothing wrong with preferring your own company, but it’s important to flex your social muscles too.