by Gemma Delaney

[A simple photo of a woman, confidently looking into the distance, representing an embodiment of high self-esteem]

Embracing a positive outlook can be a game-changer in personal growth and in enhancing how you view yourself. Regardless of what you aspire to, a sizeable dose of courage and faith in yourself is pivotal. A lack of belief in your abilities can dampen your confidence and hinder the pursuit of your dreams. So, let’s delve into how to supercharge your confidence…

Be Picky with Your Circle

International business magnate and influential speaker Jim Rohn once stated, ‘Your outlook is largely influenced by the five people you interact with the most. Choose wisely’. Surround yourself with people who buoy you up and back your decisions. If you share with someone your intentions of switching careers or picking up a new pastime, they ought to be supportive and not skeptic. Aim for an inner circle that invigorates and inspires you.

Bolstering Your Confidence

This entails taking decisive action – establishing and accomplishing goals is a surefire way to swell your confidence. In a noteworthy book written by successful entrepreneur Peter Voogd, the concept of maintaining a ‘confidence account’ is introduced. He implies that insecurities can lead to one’s demise, while true confidence can elevate you to unprecedented heights. Work on this ‘confidence account’ by completing tasks that need doing, even when you don’t feel up to it. Don’t procrastinate. Each time you postpone a task, your confidence suffers.

Adopt a Morning Ritual

An established morning routine adds structure and purpose to your day. You should ‘own the day’, rather than being overpowered by it. Getting caught up in emails, social media, and other online diversions can lead to lost time. Starting your day reacting to digital noise can have you end up scrolling endlessly when you intended to get specific tasks completed. Plan your morning wisely.

Mastery of Tasks

Becoming adept at specific tasks directly impacts your confidence. Garner new skills and become more proficient at your designated task or role.

Pen Down Your Goals

Articulating actual goals on paper or digitally triggers ‘intrinsic motivation’. This type of motivation is sparked when you are doing something impactful at a personal level and don’t need external approval or validation. It means you’re doing it for yourself – a powerful motivator.

Own Your Actions

Avoid assigning blame to others for things you did—or didn’t do. Taking responsibility for your actions is not only the mature thing to do, it also helps maintain and expand your sphere of control, and ultimately your confidence.

Master the Art of Rejection

It’s easier for some to say ‘yes’ to requests they’d rather decline than be assertive and follow their desires. However, this eventual resentment and self-criticism can impact your confidence. Formulate a clear and concise reason for turning down an invite or request, but remember, you don’t have to explain your decision if you don’t want to.

The insightful book, ‘Supercharge Your Confidence’, offering more details on this topic is available for purchase.

confidence, lifestyle, self-esteem, motivation, positive outlook, intrinsic motivation, morning routines, goal setting