Self Confidence

Not everyone is born confident. For some people it comes so very easy just like breathing, and well for some it is just not there. For the longest time growing up, I do recall not being or rather not feeling confident in most cases. I would sometimes retreat in some corner just so I don't stand out, because why; growing up I was shy.

Today I want to talk about self-confidence, what is it exactly, and most importantly, how to build your self confidence as a woman in 7 steps.

Self-confidence is the belief in your abilities, actions and decisions. If you have confidence in yourself, you might be more likely to pursue ambitious goals, try new things and believe you can succeed.

Building self-confidence requires reflecting on self-perception and developing habits that will promote a positive self-image.

7 Steps to Building Self-Confidence

1. Focus on Yourself

Focus on the qualities and experiences you have and avoid comparing to others. Life is a journey and everybody has a different one so avoid comparison at all costs. consider listing all of your positive qualities, unique experiences, and valuable skills. In all honesty look into all the great things within you that you possess, and largely focus on growing and nurturing that. Identify also the goals that you want to achieve in your life, in your career or your business.

2. Consider Past Accomplishments.

Sometimes we downplay our past achievements as if they never happened, and acknowledge them. To be able to build your self-confidence, you need to be able to identify the goals you've already achieved, celebrate them, recognize them and also acknowledge the ones you're close to reaching. For long term goals, list the necessary steps you have to take to reach them, and what steps you've already taken. These reminders can help you build confidence by recognizing your hard work so far.

3. Develop a Positive Self-Image

Creating a positive view of yourself often begins by adjusting your mindset and limit comparison to others. Start by constructing a positive self-image by imagining yourself as the person you want to be. For example, visualizing yourself in the positions you're interviewing for, with a confident set of skills. You can also visualize yourself as a successful business woman, who has the financial freedom which will enable you to travel if you like to and also have the time freedom of spending more time with your family. After crafting a positive image of yourself, consider engaging in self-affirmation activities. Self affirmation involves saying positive and uplifting statements to yourself, to challenge whatever negative thoughts may be in your mind.

"Self confidence is a super power. Once you start believing in yourself, magic starts happening."

4. Confront Potential Fears

Face your potential fears by reflecting on what might be discouraging you from reaching your potential. Have an honest conversation with yourself and ask yourself those deep questions to connect and face your fears. This will potentially allow you to identify them and enable you to work through them one by one. For example, if you're nervous about meeting new people in your work place, make it a point to proactively introduce yourself to people you don't know. It could also be the fear of public speaking, you could try speaking infront of the mirror or record a video of yourself speaking, to get used to hearing yourself speak. 

5. Prioritize Self-Care

Self care could be number of different things like meditation, a diy facial, ordering in, cleaning you closet, laying in bed all morning. As a form of self-care you can make a habit of exercising, eating healthy balanced meals, getting plant of sleep. Take time to do something you enjoy everyday, like taking up an old hobby or starting a new one. 

Maintaining a strong mental and physical health also prioritizing on social health. Spending an evening with good friends or going to dinner with family can strengthen your interpersonal skill, while increasing your self confidence.

6. Rethink Rejection

Adjusting your view of rejection can help you have confidence to approach future endeavors. Also consider that rejection isn't usually personal.

7. Surround yourself with Positivity

Part of building and maintaining a level of self-confidence is changing your mindset. By focusing on positive things, from self-care to past accomplishments, you are reframing how you perceive yourself. Another important element in this change of perceptive is surrounding yourself with positive messaging and people who encourage and support you. Having someone in life who will offer words of encouragement, and remind you of how much you have already accomplished, can be the inspiration to keep you moving forward with confidence. 

Let me know in the comments below, which one of these steps resonate with you.