January 2019

Even the greatest leaders lack self-confidence at certain times. Self-confidence is not a static quality; rather, it is a state of mind that requires considerable effort to maintain yourself when things get tough. It must be learned, practiced and mastered just like any other skill. But once it is mastered, it offers an extremely positive change.  

Here are six effective ways to build your self-confidence.

1. Get on the paper

In a second, your body language can demonstrate self-confidence, or scream that you are insecure. Present yourself in a way that reflects that you are ready to take control of any situation. If you show confidence and believe the role you aspire to achieve, you will not only feel in control: people will also have much more confidence in you.

Hold your head up, sit up straight, gently lean your shoulders back to align your spine and look directly at the other person when interacting. Give a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when someone speaks to you.  

2. Dress for the occasion

When you look better, you feel better. If you choose clothes and accessories that fit you, fit your industry and lifestyle, and make you feel good, your self-esteem rises automatically. Introduce yourself by acting out the role you intend to play, or in other words, dress for success. Don’t be afraid to make your personality stand out with the accessories you choose. A piece of jewelry or a colorful bow could start a good conversation.

3. Speak firmly

The next time you listen to your favorite speaker, analyze how he delivers a speech. A great speaker speaks with confidence, in a rhythmic and constant tone. Instead of using crutches like “eh” and “mmm” that interrupt the flow, use pauses to emphasize ideas.

Adopt an assertive, but not aggressive, way of speaking that is an indicator of your safety. You will feel how your self-esteem begins to rise. To be taken seriously, avoid speaking in a high-pitched or nervous tone, or incorporate nervous giggles into your speech. People will listen to you more closely when they see the leader radiating from within you. 

4. Think and act optimistically

It is the law of karma: positive energy leads to positive results. Always look for the good side of things, avoid negative comments (more if they want to leave you), because the only thing they do is make you feel less safe and alienate others. Smile, laugh and surround yourself with happy and positive people. You will feel better and the people you work with will enjoy being with you.

Keep a gratitude journal to remember the pleasant moments of your day, as well as your achievements. You will develop more peace and confidence when you stay in a grateful mood.

5. Take action

Having confidence in yourself goes beyond how you dress and present yourself: you must act as such. Approach a complete stranger at a networking event, or accept a project that you would normally reject. Practice showing yourself safe and soon you will feel like in your own skin.

Lack of action breeds doubt and fear, while the action builds trust and courage. As an exercise, write down your strengths and weaknesses. Most people will tell you to work on your weaknesses, but instead use what you have and capitalize on your strengths. Once you put more energy into your positive traits, your confidence will begin to shine on its own.

6. Stay prepared

Remember this motto: planning prevents bad results. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel about your experience and level of competitiveness. Being prepared will help you avoid slipping through life’s unexpected bumps.

Learn everything you can about your industry, your topic of conversation, your goals and what drives you to success. Before starting a task, imagine how you want to feel once you finish it. Don’t try to accomplish too much at once, break complex tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks.

As the American general Creighton Abrams Williams Jr once said: “If you’re going to eat an elephant, take one bite at a time.” If you have patience and perseverance, much more confidence you will be just a few steps away.