5 Ways to Build Confidence
‘I AM NOT ENOUGH’… The persistent mantra of self-doubt echoes within.
It reverberates within our thoughts of not being ‘smart enough’, ‘pretty enough’, ‘clever enough’, ‘thin enough’, ‘funny enough’, ‘rich enough’ or ‘whatever enough!’. Do any of these sound familiar?
For the past two decades, living and working in 3 different continents, I have seen an alarming trend in women across our society, almost an ‘epidemic’, of feeling that we are not ‘enough’.
THE ‘I AM NOT ENOUGH’ PANDEMIC
Virtually every individual I’ve had the privilege to coach has wrestled with feelings of inadequacy in at least one, often many, areas of their lives. I have seen that they are absolutely adequate, and more than ‘enough’, however their own thoughts and beliefs block them from seeing and believing this.
In today’s culture, it seems all too common to experience feelings of inadequacy, and thoughts that we are not ‘enough’ as we are. We often measure ourselves against societal standards, and unattainable images in the media, striving to meet the expectations set by others, or even ourselves.
I, too, have face the voice of the ‘inner critic’, the one that persistently murmurs ‘you’re not good enough’, in certain life situations. At times, it has led me down a path of low self-esteem/belief, and enduring anxiety.
This pressure to be ‘perfect’ or ‘enough’ in every aspect of life is unachievable, and can dramatically impact how we feel about ourselves, when we don’t meet up to expectations. In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, it’s easy to lose sight of our true selves and the true power we hold within.
BUILDING TRUE CONFIDENCE
True confidence isn’t about being flawless or conforming to an idealised image. Instead, it’s rooted in self-acceptance and a deep understanding of your unique qualities and strengths. Building inner confidence requires self-awareness, self-compassion, and a commitment to personal growth.
Self-belief and self-worth go hand in hand with inner confidence. When you believe in your abilities and recognise your intrinsic value, you’ll naturally radiate self-assuredness.
5 WAYS TO BUILD CONFIDENCE AND SELF BELIEF
1/ SELF-AWARENESS: EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUE QUALITIES AND STRENGTHS 💫
Begin your journey with self-awareness, by taking the time to identify your unique strengths and values. Recognise and celebrate what sets you apart, making you truly unique and special. I promise you, every one of you is special and unique.
Our minds have a tendency to fixate on the negative, and as Global Life Coach Tony Robbins often shares ‘What we focus on we feel!’
I invite you to actively seek out three positive aspects to remind yourself of daily. These can be small self-affirmations, such as “This lipstick always suits me,” “I brew a fantastic cuppa,” “I am kind hearted,” and “I never give up.” Make a conscious decision to focus your attention on your strengths and your inherent goodness, rather than dwelling on your perceived flaws.
2/ SELF-COMPASSION: EMBRACE IMPERFECTIONS AS PART OF YOUR STORY 🌻
Extend the same level of kindness and understanding to yourself that you give to others. On the journey of self-compassion, you create a nurturing environment within, fostering a sense of self acceptance, even amidst the complexities of our lives. Embrace your imperfections; they are an integral part of your individuality and what makes you authentically you (and special).
3/ PERSONAL GROWTH: A JOURNEY FOR YOUR FULFILLMENT 🦋
Pursue opportunities for personal growth that light you up. Let it be a path that nourishes your soul, not one aimed at meeting external expectations. This commitment to personal growth is a profound act of self-love that empowers you to shape your life according to your own desires and aspirations.
4/ SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVITY: CULTIVATING A SUPPORTIVE ECOSYSTEM 💚
Curate your surroundings by choosing to be in the company of individuals, and environments, that uplift and support you in your journey. Surround yourself with positive energies and influences, for they play a pivotal role in shaping your outlook on life. Conversely, be conscious when spending time with those who may consistently bring negativity into your life, preserve your energy and mind, and actively manage and choose how you spend your time.
5/ AWARENESS OF NEGATIVE THOUGHTS: EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SELF-REFLECTION💡
Whenever you find yourself grappling with thoughts of ‘I’m not good enough,’ I invite you to stand back and identify specific thoughts that are making you feel like this, and begin to challenge them. This practice empowers you to start to break through self-limiting beliefs and step into a realm where your true capabilities can shine through.
MY MISSION
In a world where the ‘I am not enough’ epidemic continues, it’s vital to take a stand for your inner wellbeing. Remember, you are more than enough, just as you are.
The intention of my work, through Beautiful Inner Living, is a heartfelt mission to empower women to let go of the negative thoughts/ beliefs about themselves, and to embrace their true potential; we all have the capability to live in our true wellbeing, full potential and be happy and confident in ourselves.