Improving one’s self-confidence may seem like a challenging task, but many self-management techniques can help.
According to the mental health information hub BetterHelp, having a positive self-image is essential for good mental health since it influences how we interact with others. It empowers us to communicate our feelings, assert ourselves, and make informed judgements.
BetterUp states that negative self-talk, on the other hand, can lower our self-esteem and lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and sadness. As a result, it is critical to identify and address negative ideas that might drag us down and undermine our self-esteem.
This increases our confidence, comfort, and overall well-being. Cognitive behavioural therapy, positive self-talk, and mindfulness techniques are some of the activities that can help you attain this. This includes factors such as physical health, emotional stability, and social support.
By prioritising these broader aspects of our lives, we can create a more stable foundation for our self-esteem and overall happiness.
BetterHelp provides 10 ways that you can boost your self-confidence:
- Avoid having negative thoughts: Negative thoughts affect self-confidence. The mental health portal suggests writing down unhelpful thoughts to become aware, stop identifying with them, and replace them.
- Surround yourself with positivity: Your surrounding environment has a big impact on self-confidence, thus individuals must surround themselves with supportive and encouraging people to nurture growth and success.
- Learn how to say “no”: “You may think that you’re being mean, but it’s acceptable to safeguard your mental health and practice assertiveness when needed,” says Better Help.
- Think about what makes you feel attractive: The mental health portal suggests that you should do things that make you feel attractive, even things like doing your hair or changing your nail colour.
- Work on your body language: Walk with your shoulders back and your chin up. Make eye contact and speak loudly and clearly. Even if you don’t feel confident, acting confident can help you feel better about yourself, says BetterHelp.
- Try doing something brave once a week, such as stepping out of your comfort zone: This could be as simple as talking to someone you’re interested in.
- Be prepared for self-criticism: Learn to not always be hard on yourself and always remember to give yourself grace for the things that you have achieved thus far.
- Set small goals for yourself that you can easily achieve: Keep a list of your accomplishments to motivate you to achieve bigger goals.
- Love yourself by taking care of your physical and mental health: Exercise, eat healthy, and practice good hygiene. Acts of self-care can go a long way in boosting your confidence.
- Help others and be grateful for what you have: Small gestures like smiling or holding the door for someone can make a big difference and make you feel good about yourself.
Also see: Benefits of a social media detox
