With the ever-growing media influence, we find ourselves being subjected to the types of people that the media portrays as being ‘ideal.' Everyone outside of those types is expected to change their lifestyle and anything possible in order to attain the ‘ideal’ type. The truth of the matter is that each one of us is unique and special and we should each be confident with who we are. I know self-confidence is easier said than done but I wanted to share some tips that helped me gain confidence in myself.

Define Yourself Based on What You Think Instead of What Others Think

Instead of constantly worrying how other people perceive you, how do you perceive yourself? Are you healthy? Happy? If you’re not healthy and happy, then you should figure out how to change that and do that for yourself. You deserve to be happy and healthy and confident with yourself. Don’t let others change your view of who you are.

Do What Makes You Happy

Yes, there are things we must all do to be functioning adults, but do what makes you happy when you have free time and when you have the choice. Choosing happy is a step to self-confidence. If you’re happy with what you’re doing, you’ll be happier in general, which boosts self-confidence. Do what you do for yourself and your happiness, not for others’ opinions or judgements.

Use Your Strengths and Work on Areas of Improvement

When you’re doing what you’re good at, you have more confidence in taking charge of what you’re doing. People will rely on you to do these things because they trust you to do a good job. When others trust you to do something, that helps boost self-confidence. Since doing what you’re good at boosts self-confidence, convert your areas of improvement to areas of strength. I’m not saying you must be good at everything, but you’ll have more confidence in yourself if you’re able to do more than one thing.

Convince and Encourage Yourself

Don’t underestimate the power of self-motivation. If you want to do something, go for it. If you want to improve a skill or improve yourself, go for it. You can do it. Your biggest cheerleader and your biggest critic is yourself. Convincing yourself that you can do it isn’t always as easy as it sounds, but doing so will give you self-confidence.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun and Smile

If you’re going through the motions or forcing yourself to do something, you’re not going to have fun doing it. But if you’re having fun and smiling, it’ll be easier to be confident in what you’re doing and happy with the final product. Don’t make it too serious. Don’t make it about others. Make it fun. Allow yourself to be happy. Make it you.