Confidence is a superpower—it shapes your interactions, decisions, and how you perceive challenges. But who feels confident all the time? Really – all the time?  Even the most self-assured individuals experience moments of doubt. And that's normal - we are human. What sets confident ones apart is their ability to navigate those doubts and keep moving forward. The direction is always forward, even if there is a stoppage or a setback. How to get such a superpower?

While some people may seem naturally confident, confidence is largely a skill that can be developed through practice, mindset shifts, and consistent effort. Building confidence isn’t about being fearless; it’s about learning to embrace your strengths, recognize your value, and push through uncertainty. Think of confidence as a skill that improves with practice and patience – you can learn and practice it like mastering a sport.

Let’s explore practical tips to help you feel more self-assured in various areas of life—whether it’s managing a big presentation, starting your business, or simply walking into a room with your head held high.

Practical Tips to Boost Confidence

Practice Positive Self-Talk

So often heard – fake it until you make it. One of the simplest yet most powerful tools to build confidence is the way you talk to yourself. Negative self-talk can sabotage your self-esteem and reinforce doubts. Pay attention to your inner voice: would you talk to a friend the way you talk to yourself? If not, it’s time to reframe those thoughts. What you focus on grows in strength. If you say - I can't, then the Universe supports your intention and confirms - yes, you can't! If you say - I can! - even when you don't think so, by practicing it regularly, you will also begin to believe it, and the Universe will beautifully confirm: Yes, you can!

Replace phrases like “I’m not good at this” with “I’m learning, and I’ll get better.” Celebrate small wins, even if they seem insignificant. Every step is important. Keeping a journal where you note your achievements, strengths, and things you’re proud of can be a great reminder of your progress. Over time, positive self-talk becomes a habit, creating a foundation for confidence that lasts. Make it a morning ritual - say good things to yourself in the mirror while you put on your makeup, or set up a gratitude and affirmations notebook. The five minutes you take to reflect, realize what you already have in your life, and express your desires in affirmations are like a small pebble that sets off an avalanche.

Improve Your Body Language

Your body language influences how you feel about yourself. Adopting confident postures sends signals to your brain that boost self-assurance. Stand tall, keep your shoulders relaxed, and avoid slouching. When we feel small and helpless, we withdraw into ourselves, our backs arch, our voices do not flow. And that makes you feel even more insecure!

Small actions like maintaining eye contact, offering a firm handshake, or smiling can significantly impact how you’re perceived and how you perceive yourself. If you’re nervous before an important event, try power poses—like standing with your hands on your hips or raising your arms in a “victory” pose for a couple of minutes. These simple tricks can elevate your confidence instantly.

Set Small, Achievable Goals

Big, ambitious goals are inspiring, but they can also feel overwhelming. There may be confusion and disbelief - how will I do this? Instead of aiming for a huge leap, focus on small, manageable steps. Each time you accomplish something—even if it’s minor—you build a sense of competence and momentum. And you get closer to your goal and see the next small step you can take.

For example, if your goal is to improve public speaking, start by practicing in front of a mirror, then move on to speaking in front of close friends or record a video of your speech for practice purposes before tackling larger audiences. These victories reinforce your belief in your ability to succeed, making you more confident to take on bigger challenges.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Your comfort zone might feel safe, but it’s not where growth happens. To build lasting confidence, you need to challenge yourself regularly. And of course, it's scary! By the way, fear in this context is a good thing, because it signals - yes, this is the next opportunity for me to expand my boundaries. Stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t mean taking massive risks; it’s about gradually exposing yourself to new situations that stretch your abilities.

For instance, if you’re nervous about networking events, start by attending smaller gatherings or online meetings where you can practice introducing yourself. Over time, these small steps add up, and you’ll find that situations that once intimidated you become easier to handle. The key is to view each step as a learning opportunity rather than a test of your worth.

Take Care of Yourself

Confidence starts with feeling good about yourself, and that’s hard to do if you’re neglecting your well-being. Simple habits like exercising, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can make a huge difference in how you feel both physically and mentally.

Exercise, in particular, has been shown to boost self-esteem by releasing endorphins that improve mood. When you feel strong and energized, you’re more likely to project confidence. Similarly, wearing clothes that make you feel good can have an immediate impact on how you carry yourself.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Surround Yourself with Inspiring People

Being around supportive, encouraging people boosts your confidence, while toxic relationships drain your energy and leave you doubting yourself.

Seek out individuals who inspire and uplift you. These could be friends, mentors, or colleagues who challenge you to grow while celebrating your successes. If someone consistently undermines your confidence, it might be time to reevaluate their role in your life. Surrounding yourself with positivity and strength creates an environment where your confidence can thrive.

Embrace Imperfection

Perfectionism is a confidence killer. Striving for flawlessness sets you up for disappointment because no one is perfect. Instead, focus on progress and growth. Accepting that mistakes are part of the process allows you to take risks without fear of failure. When you make a mistake, reframe it as a lesson rather than a setback. Over time, this shift in mindset helps you approach challenges with curiosity and confidence.

Confidence isn’t an overnight transformation; it’s a journey of small, consistent actions. From positive self-talk and improved body language to stepping out of your comfort zone and prioritizing self-care, there are countless ways to build your self-assurance. The key is to approach it with patience and persistence. As you incorporate these tips into your daily life, you’ll notice a shift. Remember, confidence isn’t about never feeling unsure; it’s about choosing to act despite those uncertainties!

So, take that first step today. Your future, confident self is cheering you on!

Author: Ieva Simanoviča