For so long there was one thing that held me back from pursuing my dreams.
It was fear of failure.
This fear comes from a lack of self-confidence. And I think it’s something we all face. The question is: “How do you overcome that fear?”
As I said multiple times everything is about the work you are willing to put into it. I believe the quote of Robert Kiyosaki:
“Confidence comes from discipline and training.”
So your fear can be conquered by working on your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I still have those fears. It’s not like you can get rid of them completely. But I know how to beat them and break through them. Because on the other side of this wall, success is waiting for you.
Remember that different things work for different people at different times.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards feeling more empowered and self-assured, here are five easy ways to boost your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
The tendency to compare ourselves to others is baked into human nature, society, and technology.
We often seek money, prestige, and fame to fulfill our need for status and respect.
The problem is that comparing yourself to others doesn’t increase your status or respect. It increases your anxiety and insecurity.
We live in a culture where it’s really difficult to not compare ourselves to others. We see types of videos and articles: “What should you have in your 20s, 30s, 40s. If you are not making a six-figure salary, what are you doing with your life, etc.”
So it feels like a race you will never be able to win.
But even though social media have so much power, you have a choice.
You can limit the time you spend scrolling through social media. Pick a time when you will not go to social media. It’s well known that 1 hour after waking up and 1 hour before bed without social media, will improve your mood.
You can choose who you will follow.
If you feel jealous, behind those people you follow. Just stop. Unfollow those that are not bringing you joy.
Start following people who can bring you knowledge, and useful information, and those who can help you to move to a better self.
Be Kind to Yourself
We’re often our own harshest critics, but learning to be kinder to ourselves can do wonders for our confidence. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend or a family. Nobody’s perfect so cut yourself some slack.
Being kind to yourself is also so much easier if you are surrounded by positive and supportive people.
The company we keep can have a big impact on how we feel about ourselves. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and who believe in your abilities. Avoid those who bring you down or undermine your confidence. If you are surrounded by people who appreciate and value you for who you are, you will be more confident.
Always celebrate your successes. No matter how small they seem. Whether it’s a job well done, a personal victory, or simply making it through a tough day, take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. Doing so will not only boost your confidence but also remind you of your strengths and resilience.
If this being kind to yourself is hard for you. Try journaling every single night. You can write 3 things you are grateful for or what you accomplished that day.
Or I made a 30-day journaling challenge where you have 1 idea for each day, so it will challenge you to know more about yourself, think about your life, and see things differently after some time. You can grab free prompts here.
Set Realistic Goals
One of the quickest ways to boost your confidence is by setting achievable goals for yourself.
Start small and gradually work your way up.
Whatever your goal is, the most important thing is to create an action plan.
- Write your goal down.
- Set a date you want to see the result.
- Then write smaller tasks that will lead you to that goal.
- Plan the tasks for each month or week (depending on what you prefer).
If you are consistent with it, you will go to the finish line.
Remember, a goal gives you the direction you want to go. But it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to achieve it.
Your goal might change along the way.
It doesn’t mean you failed. It just means you developed, you see things differently for yourself.
And it’s ok.
Always revise your goal if needed and don’t beat yourself for not achieving it.
If you want to know more about setting your goals. See the article here.
Do Things You're Good At
If you don’t know where to start, the easiest starting point is doing what you are good at.
What happens when you do that?
Your self-confidence starts to soar. Your strengths become even stronger, which helps improve your belief in yourself. Building on your strengths can also help you build your self-confidence.
If you don’t know what your strengths are, try asking your friends. Most of the time they might tell you some characteristic treats you didn’t know you had.
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Growth and confidence go hand in hand, and the best way to grow is by stepping out of your comfort zone.
Start a new hobby, speak up in a group setting, or take on a leadership role. If you are pushing yourself to do things that scare you a little, it can help you build resilience and confidence in your abilities.
Building self-confidence is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and self-reflection. By setting realistic goals, practicing self-compassion, stepping out of your comfort zone, surrounding yourself with supportive people, and celebrating your successes, you can start to build the confidence you need to thrive in all areas of your life.
So go ahead, take that first step towards a more confident and empowered you—you’ve got this!
If you want to learn more about personal growth and self-improvement join my newsletter. It may change your life 🙂
Talk to you soon.
~ Karolina
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