Why I don't like talking Other People: you should talk more! Me: *tries to talk*
-gets ignored
-gets interrupted
-gets talked over
-no one pays attention
-no one cares
When faced with a big challenge where potential failure seems to lurk at every corner, you’ve probably heard the advice, “Be more confident!” But where does confidence come from, and how can you get more of it? Here are three easy tips to boost your confidence.
Tip #1: Try a quick fix. There are a few tips that can give you an immediate confidence boost in the short term. Picture your success when you’re beginning a difficult task. Something as simple as listening to music with deep bass can promote feelings of power. You can even strike a powerful pose or give yourself a pep talk.
Tip #2: Believe in your ability to improve. Do you think your abilities and talents are fixed at birth like your eye and hair color? Or that can they be developed - like a muscle? These beliefs matter because they can influence how you act when you’re faced with setbacks. With a fixed mindset, you may be more likely to give up - thinking that you’ve discovered something you’re not very good. But with a growth mindset, a challenge can be an opportunity to learn and grow. In fact, the connections in your brain get stronger and grow with study and practice.
Tip#3: Practice failure. Face it: you’re going to fail sometimes. Everyone does. Studies show that those who fail regularly and keep trying anyway are better equipped to respond to challenges and setbacks in a constructive way. They learn how to try different strategies, ask others for advice, and persevere.
So, think of a challenge you want to take on, realize it’s not going to be easy, accept that you’re going to make mistakes, and be kind to yourself when you do. Give yourself a pep talk, stand up, and go for it. The excitement you’ll feel knowing that, whatever the result, you’ll have gained better knowledge and understanding. This is confidence.
