Confidence – a feeling of assurance and certainty especially in one’s self and one’s ability [1]
There are many articles out there about this subject; I know this because I have read them. Some of them contained truths, some half truths and some utter nonsense. Although confidence is by and large a mental state of mind, it also has a physical and practical aspect to it too. This article will look at both and hopefully help a few people, who like myself, struggled with this and maybe perhaps be able to take steps to counter the negativity that they feel about themselves and about life in general.
The only person that spends 24/7 with you is…you. So be careful what you say about yourself. If you spend that much time thinking that you are not worth this, or that you don’t deserve anything good, you are not pretty/handsome enough, then of course you will have a hard time thinking anything else even though your family, friends, colleagues and loved ones say otherwise. This is easier said than done. But here are some tips.
- Firstly, focus on the good things about you and not the negative. If there are things to work on and you do need professional help, seek it. But I am sure that there are some things that you are strong at. It could be anything from anything from having a great smile to being brilliant at DIY. Spend time paying attention to those and building on them. Perhaps you could turn one of your skills into a business. Who knows?
- Putting on a favourite outfit or piece of clothing – ladies I find a pair of killer heels works for me. Guys it could be your favourite piece of jewelry, your treasured Calvin Kleins or your beloved sports shirt. Just wearing that, could give you a bit of a boost. It’s no good sitting in the back of the drawer or wardrobe.
- Take a day off and do…anything you want from bungee jumping to yoga. Doing something different ad being in a new environment boosts confidence and can put a smile on your face. Being spontaneous can also have this effect. Life is not all about plans, schedules and rotas you know…
- Try a new look…or a new scent – this goes for men and women! I for one, would like to know if Lynx does what it says it does on the adverts…
- Realise that it’s not all about looks. Body language plays a huge part. It is 93% of all communication. Some people say “fake it till you make it.” There is some element of truth in that. If you always walk with your eyes down, shoulders slump with a miserable look on your face, people will respond negatively. However, if you walk with your shoulders back, head up, smile in place, then people will respond positively to that which will lift you.
- Smile – it’s the best facelift ever and people respond to it…if it is genuine.
- Exercise can be a great boost and releases feelgood hormones as well as being good for you! You do not have to be in the gym. Walking, jogging, rollerskating, dancing can be great ways of working out without breaking the bank.
- Although it’s tempting to reach for the junk food, try and get a little healthy stuff in there. There are foods that can help – bananas, avocados, oily fish, dark green leafy vegetables all contain vitamins and minerals which help lift moods.
Obviously, this is not meant to replace any professional help. There is help out there. Seek what is best for you. But with these points, you can begin the journey towards better self esteem and confidence.
[1] Universal Directory – Readers Digest
