4 Quick Ways to Significantly Boost Your Confidence Today
By: Michael D'Angelo
Tags: Personal Growth, Self Improvement, Life Lessons, Self Development, Advice

Confidence is a hot commodity in today’s world, and it isn’t a mystery why. With a world that is filled to the brim with challenges, where even the smallest of choices can sometimes be daunting and simply terrifying, it’s difficult to develop a strong sense of self, especially with the advent of social media, where users only post their best, but never their worst.

With such an unforgiving world, how can we cultivate the sense of confidence that is so sought after in today’s world? Is it even possible?

Well to start our confidence deep dive, we have to define what confidence truly is. Many people define confidence differently, but according to Psychology Today:

“Confidence is a belief in oneself, the conviction that one has the ability to meet life’s challenges and to succeed — and the willingness to act accordingly. Being confident requires a realistic sense of one’s capabilities and feeling secure in that knowledge.”

Now that we know what it is, how can we improve it? You’ll be surprised by just how effective a few simple changes to your daily habits can be in increasing your confidence, so let’s begin!

#1. Try Something New and Fail at It.

The more challenges you experience, the more confidence you’ll get. No one is born with the knowledge to overcome every obstacle at birth, but it’s the willingness to put ourselves in difficult situations that help us cultivate our belief in our abilities.

When attempting anything new, fully expect to fail. Not only will this significantly increase your resilience to overwhelming pressure, but this can also help you increase your skill set which is a plus. Everyone loves learning new skills right?

A few months ago I went on an outing with a few friends from high school, and we decided to go ice-skating. I was quite nervous, considering this would be the first time I had ever tried it. I did my homework the night before. It seemed easy enough — but boy was I wrong.

I fell on my ass at least 30 times. By the end of the day, I was battered and beaten, but I could at least skate for a good 10 seconds without the rail. The next time we went skating, I was much more confident about the whole thing and was ready to try it again. Although I still fell a lot, over time I became pretty decent at it.

#2. Stand Tall & Fix Your Posture + Smile!

Did you know that people who stand tall and straight are perceived as more attractive? Why do you think that is? Well, people are attracted to leaders, and what do most leaders do? They stand tall. This is a clear sign that shows authority and reassurance in oneself. People will always gravitate to those who possess leadership potential, and this is no different.

Simply imagine a rope is pulling your head back and voila! This is a great strategy before big meetings and interviews and lets others know that you believe in your abilities and can contribute to their organizations in a meaningful way.

Also, smiling is a very powerful tool! Smiling lets others know that you are approachable and friendly. No one wants to hang around a sourpuss right? Smiling also initiates conversation, which can be great for improving confidence in social situations. Not only does it make you feel great almost instantly, but it can also help you be nicer to others. More love to go around!

#3. Expand Your Knowledge

Knowledge is power. Knowledge encapsulates all of what you know, including your skillsets. Confident people are sure of their abilities to overcome challenges, so what’s the best way to improve your capabilities? Expand your knowledge! As humans, we are constantly learning and adapting, and there is knowledge all around us so use it to your advantage!

The internet is an incredible resource to absorb information about virtually anything! From how to repair your car, to improve your public speaking, the internet contains a vast array of knowledge to explore.

As you begin to learn more about the world and expand your skill set, you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s many challenges, and face them head-on! When someone asks your opinion on a certain topic, or help with a certain problem, you can be more confident knowing that you have the skills to help.

But, where should one start? I personally listen to loads of podcasts. Podcasts offer easy and reliable content to listeners, and they are super easy to digest. Podcasts also span a variety of different topics, such as poetry, world news, and pop culture. So fill that noggin with some valuable information!

#4. Exercise

I know, I know, what a classic boring answer. But, the truth is there are so many immense benefits when you exercise. It helps clear your mind, and best of all, it makes you look really good. Exercise empowers millions of people daily, and it can empower you too!

Merely knowing that you did something to immensely improve your health is such a confidence booster, and people will take notice. I remember when I began exercising back in my first year of high school. I initially did it because my health wasn’t the best at the time, and my doctor warned me of the potential consequences if I didn’t change my daily routine. So the summer before freshman year, I made a complete 180.

I was fairly chubby before this point, and when I came back to school, I looked good. Like, really good. Good enough for people to take notice. Eventually, I began to find confidence in myself, and the confidence has only continued to increase from there.

Conclusion

In conclusion, confidence doesn’t just magically manifest overnight, but with consistent effort and determination, you’ll begin to feel much better about yourself and your abilities to succeed in the things that you want to achieve. As you continue to move forward, just keep these tips in mind if you are ever in a pinch!