At a deeper level, our level of confidence affects how we see the world and how we’re seen. If we’re fearful, we’ll be cautious of new relationships. If we’re confident, we can approach relationships with a sense of control and openness. For this reason, confidence is fundamental to how we experience our lives. But how do we maintain a sense of confidence when life is full of ups and downs?
Here are five techniques towards building or improving upon self-confidence.
1. Stop being your own worst enemy
As females, this is something we’re great at doing. Admittedly, sometimes this is a useful technique to snap yourself out of situations. But if you’re always framing your internal conversation in the negative (eg. ‘I’m no good at it’)- it’s sure to get you down in the end. Frame things in the positive (eg. “I can do this and learn in the process”).
2. Realise that there is no such thing as failure
There were at least 1000 attempts before Thomas Edison finally mastered the light-bulb, which as we all know was an invention that spurned the wonders of electricity. Edison said “I have not failed 1,000 times. I have successfully discovered 1,000 ways to NOT make a light bulb.” Each action was an opportunity for learning and set him closer to his ultimate goal.
3. Surround yourself by people you want to emulate
There’s a popular saying, that the person you will become in five years time will be determined by the books you read and the people you meet. Hang out with positive, confident people, who have values that you aspire to. There is no faster way to improve the way you think about things, than to share the philosophies of those who you respect,
4. Be true to your word
Confident people who are successful, do as they say. So put your hand up for challenges and then execute them. It helps to commit yourself verbally- so voice your intention and then act upon it.
5. Take time to reflect on your success
In the world of Medicine, its too easy to become so busy that we forget all the positive things that we’ve achieved. Try and take the time every week to reflect upon your personal successes- even the small ones. Doing this helps you build the connection between your actions and successes. It will fill your mind with a sense of achievement and build your confidence.
