Confidence doesn’t come overnight. A few years ago, I was shy, second-guessed everything, and often stayed quiet—even when I had something to say. But over time, I found a few small habits that slowly made a big difference in how I saw myself.
Here are three that really helped me:
1. I Started Talking to Myself Kindly
I used to be my own worst critic. If I made a mistake, I’d replay it in my head over and over. But one day, I asked myself: Would I talk to my friend like this?
Now, when I mess up or feel nervous, I try to speak to myself like I would to someone I love. A simple “You did your best” or “It’s okay to feel this way” changes everything.
2. I Took Small Risks Every Week
Confidence grows with action. I didn’t do anything huge—just tiny things that made me nervous. Like:
-
Saying hello first in a group
-
Posting a selfie without filters
-
Sharing my opinion in a meeting
Each time I did something brave (even if it felt silly), I felt stronger.
3. I Kept a “Proud Moments” List
This sounds cheesy, but it works! I started writing down small wins—things like:
-
“Spoke up even though I was nervous”
-
“Did a task I’ve been avoiding for weeks”
-
“Said no when I didn’t want to do something”
Looking back at that list reminds me how far I’ve come. Even on low days, I can see proof that I’m growing.
Final Thoughts
Confidence doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being okay with who you are and trusting that you’ll handle whatever comes.
If you’re on your own confidence journey, start small. Be kind to yourself. Take little risks. And celebrate the wins—no matter how tiny they seem.
What’s one habit that helps you feel more confident? I’d love to hear in the comments