Tips to boost your self-confidence

It can be pretty easy to fall into a self-confidence rut. From co-workers tearing you down to waking up on the wrong side of the bed, little things can make or break your confidence level on any given day. The solution? Fight back with one of these confidence-boosting tips.

Play dress-up

One of the quickest and easiest ways to boost your confidence is to fake it. The best way to do that? Throw on one of your favorite outfits, or at least one you know will turn heads. By wearing attire that increases your self-confidence, you'll feel more presentable, secure and in control of your life.

Put on a happy face

When you smile, the whole world smiles with you, so why not? When you see others responding to your jovial attitude, your mood is bound to take a turn for the brighter and make you feel better about yourself.

Do a good deed

Hold the door for someone. Buy coffee for a co-worker. Offer your seat on the train to a senior. By doing a good deed, you'll feel better about yourself and the world around you.

Challenge yourself

Whether you set out to master a new move in your exercise class or decide to get over your biggest fear, challenging yourself to master something - and then doing it - will give you a huge boost in self-confidence.

Do something you love

When you're feeling low, it's important to do something you love and feel good doing. So lay on the couch and watch your favorite movie. Cook up a meal for friends. Take a run through your neighborhood. By doing something you're good at and that brings you pleasure, you'll feel more competent, accomplished and capable of handling any task that comes your way.

Stop procrastinating

From joining a knitting group to signing up for martial arts classes to taking your first whitewater rafting trip, if there's something you've always wanted to do, but keep finding reasons to put it off, stop procrastinating and get it done. Not only will you feel more confident for making the decision to just do it, you'll also get excited about the new things you'll be learning.

Relax

Anxiety and stress are not only toxic for your physical health, they can do serious damage to your self-confidence. Why not take some time out of your hectic schedule to seriously relax? By slowing your brain's thought pattern, you'll be less emotional and you'll feel calmer and more in control of your life - a key to feeling confident. Relax through meditation or even just a nightly bath.

Celebrate your achievements

Everything you've done in your life is an accomplishment, including taking your first step, getting on a bicycle, getting your driver's license or playing a sport. When you're feeling low, make a list of all of the things you've done that make you proud, and then whip it out whenever you need a quick pick-me-up. It's sure to make you remember - and celebrate - the fabulous people you really are.

Antoni Bialy

@bellmando