10 ways to boost your self-confidence
How many times
during your growing years did your parents tell you to walk straight or sit up
straight? You may have casually dismissed it, or maybe you didn’t really pay
attention. As an adult, though, you realise the wisdom of the advice.
Simple practices
like these don’t just help you physically but also psychologically. Psychologists
say that there are many little ways that can instantly help boost
self-confidence. Here are some easy tips on how you can do just that.
1. Grooming
The first thing that works for a confident person is his or her
personal hygiene. Right from your hair, your face, your body, your fingers, and
your skin — keep them clean and well maintained. If you have a body odour
problem, take remedial measures (use deodorants and bactericidal soaps.
Check your teeth and get them fixed if there is a problem. Brush
everyday twice, if you can, even after meals. You can even pop in a mint after
your meals.
Take care of your skin by eating the right food and drinking lots
of water. If it needs more care, take help from professionals.
Knowing you look your best is an easy and effective way to help
you act your best.
2. Dress for success
Dressing well and appropriately can do wonders for one’s self
esteem. Many of us wear clothes that look nice on the clothes rack but do not
necessarily suit our body type. Wear clothes that fit you well. If you are on
the healthier side, wear clothes that aren’t too tight yet not loose or baggy,
which just adds to the bulk and does not make you look any better.
Dressing well does not mean you need to spend your entire salary
investing in designer brands. Choose your clothes wisely — it’s quality not
quantity that counts. Pick up a few outfits that make a statement instead of
loads of outfits that do nothing for your confidence.
The other thing to do is watch the popular verdict. If most people
say pink is your colour and you feel comfortable wearing pink, do it.
3. Good posture
Good posture has an immediate and lasting impact on your
confidence. Do you recollect the time you were at the door, about to face an
interview? What did you do instinctively? Didn’t you take a deep breath? By
doing that two things happen — your stomach goes in and your head is held high.
Always hold your head high, throw your shoulders back, keep your
back straight and walk with confident steps. Practice in the mirror a few times
to make sure your doing it right, without looking too stiff.
4. Walk smart
Do you take small, shuffling steps? Do you fling your arms around
when you walk? Stop! You may be doing something sub-consciously that does not
really compliment your style.
Be aware of how you walk. Be quick and energetic with a spring in
your step. Think of a nice outdoor activity that you like doing, feeling the
breeze on your face and letting your heart guide your walk.
If you are still not comfortable, try this age-old trick. Place a
big book on your head and try to walk without dropping it. This is a great way
to improve posture and gait.
5. Smile often
To complete the look, make sure to smile. Smile as often as you
can and, if you can manage, let a tiny smile hang around the corners of your
mouth.
In all your interactions, look people in the eye, greet them and
smile. You’ll see the other person transform in front of you.
6. Be Empathic
Your confidence levels rise drastically when you successfully
connect with people around you. For that you need to be Empathic towards your
family, friends and colleagues to begin with. Once you can deal and help other
people with their emotions and problems, you immediately increase your
influence with your circle of friends, acquaintances and colleagues.
7. Learn to calm yourself
This is probably the most important factor when it comes to
confidence — being able to face every situation calmly. But this does not come
naturally to everyone, which is why you need to train yourself.
Find activities that calm you — like talking a walk, listening to
music, dancing, talking to your friends, reading, writing, gardening, cooking —
any activity that makes you feel happy. Do it once or twice a week or month,
depending on the time you have. Meditation techniques help too.
8. Empower yourself
Knowledge almost always boosts self-confidence. Empower yourself
with knowledge — of your surroundings, of your job, of people, of the world
around you. A good grasp of current events helps you strike up meaningful
conversation and ensures that you’re not left out.
One of the simplest things to do is read the newspaper, talk to
people and be aware and observant.
9. Keep a soul knick-knack
A soul knick-knack can help you tide over those times when your
confidence is tested. It could be your guru’s photo, a gift from a loved one,
your lucky charm, or even a photograph of a loved one. This soul knick-knack
needs to be something that can bring a smile to your face, specially during
testing times.
10. Find solutions to problems
Do not procrastinate or run away from your problems. The sign of a
confident person is that he or she takes the problem head on and finds a
solution. If you don’t think you can handle it on your own, there is no shame
in seeking help.
Talk about it with friends or colleagues, or write it down while
listing out various solutions, pros and cons.
“Sharing IS Caring”
No comments: