In a world where there are millions of people who are confident and not afraid to be themselves; there are equally just as many people who lack self-confidence and self-esteem. Many people (including me) can relate to being an introverted person and feeling awkward around people. While most of us would love to live on an isolated island away from everyone, that’s just not practical. It is very difficult to change your perception of yourself and feel like you own the world, but it is not impossible. Here are seven bonafide ways to build your self-confidence and feel comfortable around people.
1. Find something you like about yourself and run with it.
Almost everyone has at least one thing they like about themselves, whether its something physical or a personality trait. Remind yourself of that trait every day and even saying it to yourself in the mirror is good. Whenever you’re feeling down, remember that trait and it will be sure to make you at least smile. Everyone is different in their own way and often times those differences and quirks are the things that make us awesome and unique. Whenever you find something about yourself that you love unconditionally, no one can take that away from you or bring you down.
2. Take good care of yourself.
When you look good you feel good. Take some time to treat your body, whether it be a makeover, or just a new haircut and/or nail color change. Even visiting this reputable dentist in Greeneville for regular dental check-ups will help. Little things like these will have you feeling beautiful and more confident. Being well-groomed will make you walk with your head a little higher.
3. Find hobbies that include other people.
Now I know this one can be difficult because being an introvert, you’ll want to avoid people. I found, however, that joining a group or club that has to do with something you love, puts you in a comfortable mood and it’s less stressful to talk and bond with people there. You will be so focused on doing the activity that you love, that talking to people and being open will come naturally and easier. The people there will already have something in common with you and you can use that as practice when you’re out doing normal things.
4. Be positive.
This is like the “fake it ’til you make it,” mentality. I understand that this is easier said than done but it works wonders. Whenever you’re feeling low, think of something positive. Try to find positives in everything and it will soon become second nature to you. Whenever you hear something negative or even if you yourself are just thinking about something negative, ignore that thought immediately. As soon as it comes to mind go straight to something positive. Once you’re able to see the good in everything in your life, you will be happier overall. When you grow accustomed to being positive, you will feel more in power with your thoughts and not so afraid of your emotions.
5. Tell people what you want.
As scary as it is telling that waiter they got your order wrong or telling a friend you want to leave the party early, you will eventually have to do it. Being assertive and telling people what you do and don’t like will be such a breath of fresh air. Even though it is tough expressing to others what you want without feeling like you’re being rude, it has to be done. People will respect that you know what you want and you know how to express yourself. You will feel more confident that you are able to say how you feel without feeling bad about it afterward. It may be scary at first but once you make it clear what you want, you will definitely feel like you have control of your life and you can do anything.
6. Keep good people around you.
As a shy person with little confidence, you may not have many friends or people you talk to but the people you do associate yourself with should also be positive people. Just having a friend or co-worker that you may talk to from time to time is good especially when they are good-spirited people. Having people or a person around you that doesn’t cause drama or stress and lifts your spirits up will be easy to be around and helps your confidence grow by adding to what you already like about yourself. In no way should you want or need validation from anyone at all but its nice having people or a person around you that helps you see how great you already are.
7. Always have faith in yourself.
Referring back to number one, you are different for a reason. Whenever you’re feeling unsure about yourself, just look deep within. Everything you need is already in you, you just have to have the courage to pull it out. Always think in the back of your mind, “I can do this. I will do this. I am pretty great.” When you realize and find that something that makes you special, no one can make you feel like you are less than. Remember all the good things you have accomplished and how far you’ve gotten in life. You are still here and still standing. Since you’ve made it this far in life, know that you’ve done something right and there’s something you possess that has kept you here. Just keep thinking about it and you will believe it.
