This weeks edition of Hood Health 101 gives you tips on how to increase your confidence.
“Man often becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
Confidence is a quality that is very important to have. Confidence among other factors has been shown to increase a person’s productivity levels. It enables better communication, cultivates trust and respect, as well as exudes ownership over one’s actions. Now, I understand that confidence is not something that is naturally innate to everyone. With that being said, confidence CAN be acquired through practice and couching. Listed below are a couple of pointers to get you started:
- Research topics that you want to become efficient or proficient in.
The more knowledge that you have about a topic, the greater your confidence is. Think about the difference in the tone and posture of an individual who speaks on topics that they are well versed in. Their presence commands the attention of others. In that moment they have earned your trust and more than likely, become viewed as an authority on that particular topic.
- Practice speaking to yourself in the mirror.
Give short speeches or presentations in the mirror. Take note of your mannerisms during the presentation. This way, you can see firsthand what others see when they are observing you. Also, don’t be shy! Walk around and use hand gestures if you like. The point is to be comfortable and relaxed as you speak, while also being poised and authoritative.
- Get the shoes.
Literally! If it is not a pair of shoes that you want, then find that outfit or accessory that makes you feel awesome. When you dress in a manner that makes you feel good, you tend to radiate confidence. Dress in conjunction with the way that you want others to view you. If you want to be viewed as a corporate powerhouse, then get a great suit that showcases the ideal for that type of position. If you want to be viewed as a fashion forward individual, then look at magazines and others sources that assist you in creating fashion forward looks.
- Fall in LOVE
The confidence that comes in and with genuine love is amazing. So I recommend that you fall in love all over again, with YOURSELF. Stop nick picking about imperfections that many of us will never notice anyway. Take the time every day to express gratitude for all of you perfections and imperfections. Embrace them all fully and unconditionally. Let the weight of negative thinking and opinions fall to the ground. Building yourself up with love is the greatest confidence booster that I could ever think of!
The lack of confidence can be the one thing that is keeping you from reaching your goals and dreams. Always remember that no one will ever believe in you or your capabilities more than yourself. Take the time to preform self evaluations to understand what makes you unique and special. Once you understand how different you are or how differently you can set yourself apart from others with confidence, you will be limitless. Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter @NakeashaJ and on Instagram @Melanated_Beauty.
