Confident people can seem innately outgoing, self-assured and assertive. But that’s not always the case. Confidence can be developed through practise. Here are eight tricks that will leave you feeling confident:
1. Banish Imposter Syndrome
Many of us feel like frauds from time to time, scared that we will be “found out.” Overcome this by improving your self-awareness. Understand where your strengths lie and take comfort in the fact that you are not alone.
2. Stop Being a Perfectionist
Sometimes “good enough” is exactly that. Don’t allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good. Learn when it’s time to let go and move on to the next task.
3. Play to Your Strengths
Share your talents and your confidence will flourish. If, for example, you have good organizational skills, why not volunteer to arrange the next office function.
4. Reflect on Your Successes
Take stock of your achievements and keep a note of them. It can be all too easy to forget past successes when the chips are down, so having them in writing somewhere will provide encouragement when you need it.
5. Do Something Scary
Stepping out of your comfort zone can often reveal skills you never knew you had. The more often you do this the easier it will get, and the more confident you will become.
6. Practise Deep Breathing
Simple as it may sound, taking a few deep breaths when you’re under pressure will help slow the stress response and relax you.
7. Put Things into Perspective
If a situation starts to feel overwhelming, take a minute to put it into context. Try to be grateful for what you have and focus on practical steps you can take to move on with courage and conviction. Looking back on a stressful event with the benefit of hindsight can help you understand your emotions and deal with similar situations more effectively in the future.
8. Pretend
Last but not least, the old “fake it ’til you make it” technique. Even if you don’t feel confident on the inside, projecting an air of confidence will inspire others to trust in your abilities. Try adopting a power stance for two minutes and feel the confidence radiate.