HOLISTIC HEALTH
The importance of self-confidence: 4 small ways to make big changes
If you ever have times when you feel like you're short on self-esteem, know that you're not alone — and it's not your fault! Everything from your can impact how confident and self-assured you feel.
Thankfully, you can boost your self-confidence through small, mindful actions that add up to major change. This transformation can benefit just about every area of your life and help you maintain a positive outlook no matter what gets thrown your way.
You already understand the importance of self-confidence — now it's time to equip yourself with strategies that help you continually look on the bright side. Here are four ways to get started.
Julia Malacoff June, 01, 2020
Writer, trainer, nail art aficionado
1. Choose good mood foods
One of the most impactful ways you can raise your self-esteem is by taking care of your body. A simple way to do that? Choose foods that make you feel good — not just as you're eating them, but over time. What you eat has a real impact on your brain, so if you're living on coffee and the occasional grab-and-go snack, you're probably not going to feel your best.
Try to pay attention to how different foods make you feel. What emotions go through your head after a meal? How do you feel physically? Take note, and then prioritize foods and meals that give your mind and body a boost.
2. Treat your skin to some extra TLC
How your skin looks can influence your mental state and self-esteem — so if you want to feel more confident, it's worth paying special attention to. When you feel good in your skin, your life changes!
It's a good idea to create routines for your mornings and nights that are each tailored to your skin's needs. Coming up with skincare rituals to start and finish your day can help you feel more grounded — and the obvious bonus of glowing skin will only raise your self-confidence.
If you're super prone to dryness, seek out products that are highly moisturizing. And if you've got really sensitive skin, opt for ultra gentle options that will make your skin feel soothed and pampered.
3. Call your BFF
You've probably heard that the people you're surrounded by impact how you feel about yourself. That couldn't be more true! Plus, it's well-documented that the quality of our relationships has a huge impact on how happy we are, how we feel about ourselves and even how healthy we are in old age. That means it's worth it to put a little extra effort into relationships with the friends and family who make you feel loved.
Take some time to consider the people in your life who make you feel better about yourself. Maybe every time you grab brunch with a certain friend, you leave feeling like you can conquer anything, or you have a family member who always reminds you how awesome you are. When it comes to your self-confidence, who you spend your time with matters — so prioritize the people who build you up!
4. Try to see the bright side
You've probably heard about the power of positivity before. Even if it made you roll your eyes, it's definitely worth a try!
Give it a chance, because the research is clear: Positivity and confidence are linked. What's more, people who believe they'll succeed are more likely to accomplish their goals. So try to focus on cultivating optimism; considering the astounding importance of self-confidence, you're sure to reap some worthwhile rewards.
