Have you ever received a compliment about something you are wearing and you reply with something along the lines of "Oh, this old thing, I've had it for years" or you receive a thumbs up on the presentation you just gave to 15 people from finance and you give a demure "oh, really, was it okay?" modest, sort of reaction. Do you sometimes have the passing thought that you'd be great for a role, but then insecurities get the better of you? We can often find it difficult to cheer for ourselves, but, if we do not root for ourselves then who will? So it's priority that you don the pom pom's and lead the cheer group - even if it is just you chanting 2, 4, 6, 8.
1. Find 5 good things about yourself - daily.
Know how to dry shave your legs without a graze, or support your friends exceptionally in their times of need - credit yourself for this. Keep a daily list of 'I am a Badass Because...' for an instant daily confidence boost.
2. Take care of yourself - well.
Work on your self-confidence and self-esteem. You will not feel worthy of advocating for yourself if you do not feel confident and content. Learn to put yourself first when it is needed, by pampering, reading and discovering new and important things about yourself.
3. silence negative Nancy
Our inner critic makes cheering for ourselves extremely difficult - so we need to find a way to switch her off. Perhaps counter 'Negative Nancy' with 'Positive Penny', for every bit of negative self talk that comes along have Penny interrupt and replace that with a positive thought. Sounds weird, but it works - trust me.
4. Take pride in what you do - always.
If you are working on a project, essay, or speaking at an event, whatever it may be, take pride in it. Show up prepared, polished and ready to kick ass. Taking pride in what we are doing not only shows others that we are badass, but also shows that we are committed, passionate and always follow through. This fulfillment alone will be a total confidence boost.