Confidence is the feeling of trust in one’s ability, and judgment; it is necessary for anyone who wants to have high self-esteem.
A clean outfit can help you feel more confident at work, especially when a colleague or boss compliments your appearance. If you reflect a bit, you will probably be able to point out other instances when you felt a little more confident and “on top of the world.” It’s always a good feeling, you’ll agree!
Indeed, there are lots of benefits associated with being confident- You’ll gain the respect of people around you, it’ll make you a happier person, you will feel propelled to build more successful relationships and businesses, amongst others.
Considering these benefits, here are some simple yet small changes you can make starting today that’ll help you look more confident.
1.Always Wear Clean And Ironed Clothes
Your appearance says a lot about you because it is the first point of contact when you are out there. Hence, it’s essential to always look your best!
You may have heard the saying, Dress the way you want to be addressed!. That is a fact!
While trying to look good, don’t mistake it for looking expensive.
You never have to break the bank to look good; you only need to give more attention to ensuring that your clothes are always clean and ironed.
Here is part of what that would do for you: you’ll command respect effortlessly, and that’ll rub off on your confidence in a good way.
It’s a win-win situation every time!
2. Look At People In The Eye
Do you look down when others are talking to you, or maybe you look away all in a bid to avoid eye contact?
Well, you’re indirectly passing a message across to them, and your expression is saying that you feel shy and are intimidated by the person’s presence.
If that is not what you want others to constantly think of you, then you need to start practicing holding your head high and looking at who you are talking to in the eye.
Other habits you can practice to support this would be to:
Speak in a clear tone: Let the person you are talking to hear your voice distinctly. Stuttering or fumbling while speaking might give the impression that you are not trustworthy or you are not sure of what you are saying
Maintain proper posture: it is easy for the other person to regard you as timid and lacking self-confidence if you constantly play with your hands or bite your nails while talking. It’s also a sign of being absent-minded.
3. Learn new skills
The confidence that comes with learning a new skill is unmatched! Beyond the feeling of having something ‘new’ to contribute to society, it’s a great way to boost your confidence.
Imagine that you always feel clumsy while cooking because you’re not exactly sure of the right ingredients to use. It’ll be difficult to feel confident about cooking for your friends if they come over.
The best thing to do in this scenario is to join a cooking class.
Once you’re able to master the art of preparing great meals, it’ll do a lot to your self-confidence. That’s the feeling of picking up a new skill- it puts new springs in your steps.
As you read this, you can already identify areas where you need to sharpen or pick up a new skill. Note down these areas, and don’t let anything hold you back.
4. Keep Your Fears To Yourself
It’s better to keep your fears, doubts, and shortcomings to yourself, but if you must talk to someone about it, ensure it is a person you can trust.
This is another way to boost your self-confidence.
5. Stop Comparing Yourself To Others
Comparing yourself to others can no doubt lower your self-esteem. It gives you the feeling that someone else is better than you. Believe you are unique in your way, just like everyone else is.
Be yourself; everyone else is taken- thus goes the saying.
Be proud of who you are, and always look out for the opportunity to improve yourself. Envying other people’s lifestyles will make you grow bitter.
Not only that, it will lower your self-esteem. If you ever feel the urge to be envious of others, remember your strengths and achievements.
Remind yourself of the opportunities and privileges you have that they probably do not have. This will help keep your feet on the ground, and you will see reasons to be happy with yourself.
Confidence is a quality that anyone can develop, and improving yourself daily is essential to building your confidence. Looking good, learning new skills, and not comparing yourself to others are desirable attitudes that can help you improve on your self-confidence and live a more fulfilled life.
