Are you tired of feeling like you’re not good enough? Do you doubt yourself in nearly every decision that you make? Do you feel like an impostor in your own life? It’s time to take self-advocacy into your own hands by developing self-confidence and getting the respect that you deserve from yourself and others.  

Here are seven ways to develop self-confidence:

Take Time to Learn Who You Are Without Outside Judgement

Taking time to learn about who you are and what makes you tick will increase your self-confidence by giving you an understanding of yourself that comes from within. Avoid outside judgment by taking a break from social media, and don’t compare yourself to others. Use this time to reflect and celebrate your unique qualities. Spend time journaling, meditating, or reading books that explore topics of identity, self-awareness, or anything you gravitate towards.

Don’t Be Your Worst Critic

You are valuable and worthy of respect. Don’t let inner doubts get in the way of your success. Instead of giving in to those doubts, tell yourself the opposite. For example, instead of saying you are the ugliest person in the room, tell yourself that you are just as beautiful as everyone else. Brooding in negative thoughts will likely lead to the outcome you don’t want – a lack of self-confidence.

Make Sure Your Goals Are Reasonable

Unrealistic goals will easily lead to disappointment and cause your self-esteem to take a hit because you won’t be able to reach them. That’s why ensuring your goals are reasonable and achievable is important. Breaking them down ensures each step you take toward achieving your goal is effective. 

Adopt Healthy Habits 

Start healthy habits that make you feel good. Exercise, eat right, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. When you feel good and healthy, your confidence will naturally increase. A poor diet and lifestyle will also affect chemicals in your brain, which can decrease your confidence.

Recognize That You Can Only Please Yourself

Prioritize your own happiness and satisfaction rather than constantly seeking the approval or validation of others. Realize that true fulfillment comes from within, and you cannot rely on external factors or other people’s opinions to determine your happiness. This means you should get rid of the idea of perfection and not worry if everyone likes you. 

Understand That You Are Worthy of Respect

You should understand that your opinions, feelings, and experiences are valid, just like everyone else’s. Strive to treat yourself with respect and show yourself the same courtesy as you would others. 

Failure is the Beginning, Not the End

Acknowledge that failure is part of the learning process and understand that it’s okay to make mistakes. Learn from your situations, but don’t dwell on them. Have the courage to move past any self-doubt or fear and try again. 

Developing self-confidence is not an overnight process. It takes effort, but it’s worth it. You will have no problem taking charge of your life with practice and perseverance. Remember, you are capable, strong, and deserving of success.