We all have times in our lives when we don’t feel confident in our abilities, and that can really affect how we do in school and at work. It’s normal to be a little nervous before a big test or an important interview, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to increase self-confidence!
When we’re more confident in our abilities we get more done and are less worried about making mistakes or messing up. Of course we want to do the best we can in everything we do, but it’s important not to let the fear of failure keep us from achieving what we’re capable of! Here are six easy ways to increase self-confidence and make you look and feel more self-assured:
- Pay attention to body language. Your posture says a lot, and many people don’t realize it! Even something as simple as standing up straight with your shoulders back and head high can make you both look and feel more self-assured.
- Plan ahead and be prepared. Interviews, tests, and big meetings can feel scarier when we know we aren’t as prepared for them as we could be. Spending a little longer studying or running through practice interview questions can easily make you feel more confident and ready to do your best.
- Dress the part. Unless there’s a specific dress code that you need to obey, you’ll feel more self-assured when you’re wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable and that fit well. Fidgeting because something is too small or too big or pulling on a sleeve or hemline won’t do your self-confidence any favors.
- Focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Keeping in mind everything you’ve accomplished is a great way to increase your confidence by reminding you of what you’re capable of. When you feel like you’re struggling with something or are worried about making mistakes, remember everything you’ve already accomplished and believe in yourself!
- Take criticism but stay positive. Constructive criticism is so important because it can help us learn from our mistakes. If someone gives you constructive criticism, don’t see it as a negative! Instead, take it as an opportunity to improve in that area so that you will feel more confident about it the next time.
- Practice, practice, practice! Practice may not make perfect, but it can definitely help you feel more comfortable and confident speaking up in meetings or in front of large groups. Even if it seems scary, it does help to keep trying even when you don’t feel confident. Every time you succeed, take it as a reminder that you can do this!
You are strong. You are beautiful. You are important. You have every right to be confident!