Self-confidence affects all of the aspects in your life, be it relationships, self-worth or your career. In fact, research from Missouri Western State University found that those with less self-confidence performed worse in their daily lives. If you have low self-confidence, the only way to change is to create self-confidence. Luckily, it is an acquired skill, and everyone has the potential to feel good about themselves.
Step 1
Set a tangible goal. The problem with setting an abstract goal to create self-confidence is that there is no concrete yardstick to gauge progress. Instead, choose a goal that would require confidence to achieve, such as attending a speed dating event, singing karaoke in front of a large group or asking your supervisor for a promotion. Then set the time line for completing the goal. You'll have something real to work toward in your quest for self-confidence.
Step 2
Step outside of your comfort zone by forcing yourself to do things that would take confidence and that you would normally not do. Make a commitment to say "yes" when someone asks you to take on a project, go out for the night or meet someone new, even if you would usually decline. Forcing yourself to do things that make you uncomfortable can help you see that you can do those things, thus conquering anxiety and self-doubt.
Step 3
Apply yourself to learning new things. While the world of tabloids and celebrity would have you think that confidence comes from the latest cosmetic surgery, recognize that confidence comes from what is inside you, not from what label you're wearing. Take a course, attend a workshop or learn more about a subject to gain confidence in conversation that you can use with others.
Step 4
Create your own ideal self image. Be realistic and remove notions of perfection. Understand that those who are self confident aren't perfect; they just know how to present both their strengths and weaknesses in the best possible light. By creating your own ideal, you can stop looking up to unattainable goals for beauty and success given to you by society, and become happy in your own skin.
Step 5
Accept compliments when they are handed to you, says business website MindTools.com. Too often, someone with low self-confidence exposes herself by refusing to acknowledge a job well done. When a colleague or friend gives you a compliment, a person with self-confidence will reply with "thank you" instead of making excuses or downplaying her work.
Step 6
Complete your goal that you set at the beginning of your journey to create self-confidence, even if you don't feel ready. Simply proving to yourself that you can overcome fears and fake confidence will give you more confidence to keep up your progress. Knowing that you've completed your goal will spur you on to create more.
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