Renew You!

How to build confidence 

Everyone has self doubts but confidence has a lot to do with how those doubts are outwardly projected. Think about a person you consider confident. How do they talk to people? How do they walk or stand? Confident people tend to walk faster, dress more sharply, have good posture, and speak up in a crowd. Copy these traits, even if it’s uncomfortable. Eventually it will feel more natural. The old adage still rings true: Fake it until you make it.

Building confidence is a slow process but it’s also the most rewarding. Identify things that make you feel insecure and don’t keep them bottled up. Instead let them out on paper or share them with close friends and family. Soon you’ll realize that they have similar insecurities and can help you overcome them.

Focus on the positive instead of the negative. Think of the things you’re good at doing. Keep in mind all the compliments people have given you and think of them when you start to feel insecure. Confident people compliment other people, so try complimenting someone else. They may just have a compliment for you in return!

Stop worrying! Probably the best way to build your confidence is to just stop worrying about what people are thinking. Sometimes this is easier said than done, but remember, most people are critical because they have their own insecurities. Don’t let them lower your self confidence just so they can improve their own.

Helping others also builds confidence. Volunteer or teach someone how to do something you’re good at. By helping others, you’ll highlight your strongest attributes. You’ll make others feel good and yourself as well.

Now here’s your chance to build your confidence by helping others. Tell us about the things you do that improve your confidence.