Expert Panelists are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within the areas of Business, Mindset, Leadership, Lifestyle, and Sustainability. Members of The Brainz Magazine community of experts will share their best tips, advice, ideas, and hacks on different topics.
1. Make a list and reflect
Lack of self-confidence is generally due to the fact that you are making decisions in your life based on other people's opinions and/or expectations. In other words; people pleasing. Make a list of all the incredible accomplishments that you've had so far in your life, and take some time to reflect on each situation. Breathe in that courage, and strength, and remind yourself that you already are more than enough. Start living into what makes you happy and with that initial boost of courage, you'll find your confidence growing each and every day.
2. Do not compare yourself to others
A very important factor that helps you to be more confident is not to compare yourself to others. Comparison is a thief waiting to steal your confidence. Once you allow comparison to distract you and allow you to unnecessarily compare yourself to others, it could lead to a state of depression. Depression could lead down the road of inadequacy or feeling less than. Therefore, focus on and be confident in yourself.
Dr. Mary J. Huntley, Board Certified Master Life Coach/CEO Trinity Global Empowerment Ministries, Inc.
3. Accept all parts of yourself
One of the biggest ways we can build our self-confidence is to accept all parts of ourselves, the things we love about ourselves, and the things that we find challenging about ourselves. This doesn't mean that we stop continually working on improving ourselves. It means that we show love and kindness to all aspects of ourselves, even the things we don't like. Think of your best friend, I am sure there are parts to them that you don't like and yet you still love and accept them. Start to look at yourself as your best friend (because you are) and give yourself that same acceptance. You are worthy of acceptance.
Arliss Dudley-Cash MA, MBA, Business Coach and Consulting
4. Do more of what makes you happiest
Limiting beliefs tend to destroy your confidence and self-esteem. It can damage your belief in your own ability to make the necessary changes in your life that will bring you more fulfillment and happiness, such as;
“I don’t deserve that much”
“I’m not qualified enough for that job” or;
“I could never quit my job and start my own business”
Then you won’t do any of these things. You will subconsciously sabotage any opportunities that would come to you.
Focus on yourself by doing things that make you feel good, but offer to support other people in need. This will not only stop you from focusing on your own current situation by keeping your mind occupied, but also allow you to show gratitude and realize the things you can be grateful for. With enough practice and preparation, anything is possible. You will rejuvenate your motivation, helping you to become more confident and mentally equipped to succeed.
5. Choose your power outfit!
When you start your day with feeling and thinking of what you are grateful for it connects you with an internal feeling of being present. Dress in your power outfit to your favorite music, that makes you feel like an empowered, confident and joyful person. Choose your superpower pose and your affirmations. That energy you’ll send out will attract what you want!
6. Surround yourself with people who add value to you
Surround yourself with people who add to you rather than subtract from you. Although confidence comes from within, there is no denying that the people that surround us, impact us in profound ways. Surround yourself with people who add value to you through their positive energy, their sincere love, and compliments, who see the best in you & pour truth into you. Anybody that chips away from you by making you feel bad has no business being in your life.
7. Be you and be open to guidance
Confidence is that sense of certainty & stability that you're okay and will be okay, that you know what to do and have what you need to succeed. Be present and open to your heartful wisdom and guidance, and you will find true confidence and security. Following your present moment intuitive nudges, one good feeling at a time, is the basis for our innate wellbeing & confidence.
8. Make a few shifts in life
We all can increase our confidence if we make a few shifts in life. Here are 3 you can make:
Avoid negative self-talk: Ask yourself, “What does my internal tape say to me about me?” If all that comes to you are negative words, it is time to create a new tape.
Make two lists – one showing your strengths and one showing your achievements: Remember everyone has both!
Capture and re-read your positive comments and compliments: Help your brain by continually reinforcing these compliments and positive comments so you begin to believe in yourself.
Try these and see what a difference they can make.
