A healthy living blog from Marshfield Clinic Health System

7 tips for boosting self-confidence

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Self-confidence can make a world of difference in how you live and enjoy your life. Here are some tips to boost your confidence.

Self-confidence can make a world of difference in how you live and enjoy your life. It’s the key to seizing the opportunities that come your way in your career, relationships, and personal interests. Confidence isn’t bragging or being arrogant; it’s simply knowing who you are and what you’re capable of, and not being afraid to show that to the world. Whether you’re going to a job interview, on a first date, to a doctor’s appointment, or to a party, your confidence will shine through.

For some women, exuding confidence isn’t as easy as flipping a switch. In those cases, learning how to build self-confidence through active self-examination and lifestyle habit changes can help. If you’re feeling uncertain in any situation, give these self-confidence boosters a try:

  1. Make a list of your strengths and accomplishments
  2. Maintain healthy lifestyle and hygiene habits
  3. Set goals for yourself
  4. Be aware of your thoughts and reactions to situations
  5. Forgive yourself for missteps
  6. Remember that other people feel just like you
  7. Volunteer for a good cause

Keep reading to learn more about these tips for boosting self-confidence below.

Make a list of your strengths and accomplishments

Taking some time to notice your strengths and accomplishments is a powerful step toward building self-confidence in any circumstance. Writing them down in a list is helpful because you can reread it if you feel low. This list can be anything you like about yourself: resilience, generosity, empathy, organization, discipline, a new certification or promotion, etc. No matter how small or insignificant it may seem, add it! If you’re struggling with your list, ask a trusted friend or family member about positive traits they would add to your list.

Maintain healthy lifestyle and hygiene habits

When you invest in healthy self-care habits, you tend to feel more confident. Consider developing a skincare routine that brings out your natural glow. Taking care of your teeth—brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly can also make a difference. Eat healthy foods and exercise regularly to feel physically and mentally balanced. Visit your gynecologist to ensure you’re staying up-to-date on routine women’s health screenings that can help detect warning signs early. Finally, taking time for yourself and learning how to practice self-love can also put a spring in your step!

Set goals for yourself

Crushing personal goals is key when you’re considering how to build self-confidence. If you have a big goal, think about breaking it into manageable chunks so it feels more achievable. For instance, if your goal is to earn a college degree, break it down to one semester or class at a time, or even one test or project. Your goals can be anything you’re excited about – things like learning a new recipe, trying a new hobby, asking for a raise at work, taking a class at the gym, joining a book club, or something else that makes your heart sing.

Be aware of your thoughts and reactions to situations

Self-awareness is the first step to achieving a mindset change that can boost your self-confidence in many situations. If you’re having negative thoughts or dealing with troubling situations, identify how you’re reacting and your thought process. If your go-to reaction causes you to feel unsettled, consider taking a step back and give yourself the advice you would give to a friend in your shoes. Through close examination of your thoughts, you can learn to replace negative self-talk with compassion and understanding as stress-inducing circumstances arise that compromise your self-confidence.

Forgive yourself for missteps

Whoops—did you say the wrong thing or trip in front of a group? Laugh it off, forgive yourself, and move on. If you hurt someone, sincerely apologize in private. Forgiving yourself for missteps can go a long way in boosting your self-confidence, especially when it comes to our relationships with others. Realize that letting yourself off the hook instead of punishing yourself or retreating can release pressure and help you learn from your mistakes.

Remember that other people feel just like you

When you’re having trouble feeling confident, remember that everyone has moments of insecurity, just like you. Even the most confident-seeming people have things they would like to change about themselves or need help feeling more self-assured. When you’re interacting with someone you don’t feel confident around, remember that they are likely worried about how they’re coming off to you.

Volunteer for a good cause

By volunteering, you get to build skills and relationships all while helping others in need – the ultimate confidence-booster! Whether it’s organizing a clothing drive, walking dogs at an animal shelter, or serving meals at a local soup kitchen, your efforts will be appreciated. You’re sure to feel great about yourself when giving back to others because volunteering is known to increase self-esteem and confidence.

These tips for boosting self-confidence can help you tackle difficult or everyday situations with ease. To schedule an appointment with our doctors, midwives, and women’s health team to discuss more healthy tips you can incorporate into your life, call 920.885.6090 or reach out to us online today.

Check out these ways to boost your body confidence for even more ideas that can help you feel good in your skin.

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