Confidence is something that escapes all of us from time to time. Whether you’re feeling out of place in the office or as though you don’t look as good in your bikini as the other beachgoers. However, it’s important to remember that confidence is a state of mind – and it can be something we can easily reclaim – we just need to change the way in which we think and let go of societal pressures.

With that in mind, here are some top tips that you can use to boost your confidence today! 

Embrace what makes you unique. Sometimes, a lack of confidence comes from feeling as though we do not fit into the mold that society has built for us. However, it’s important to remember that this is because we are not made to be defined by someone else’s standards. Therefore, you can boost your confidence by learning to embrace what makes you unique – and viewing it as an asset rather than a hindrance. By celebrating your uniqueness, you’ll also help others begin to do the same. After all, elevating your own confidence levels does not and should not involve tearing down others. By lifting each other up, we are creating a world where everyone can feel confident. 

Put together a self-care routine. Self-care routines are designed to help you look and feel great – and, as a result, can have an increasingly positive effect on your confidence. For example, you could put together a skincare routine that helps you maintain a glowing, youthful look all year round. One way in which you can do this is by using manuka oil for your skin. Sourced from manuka honey, the oil can reduce redness, acne, and scarring – leaving you feeling fresh-faced and confident. In addition to a skincare regimen, your self-care routine should also prioritize your hobbies, rest & relaxation. Essentially, it should center around the things that make you feel good! 

Experiment with new styles. The clothes we wear can also affect our confidence. However, it’s important that you don’t limit yourself – as experimenting with your wardrobe can help you feel more comfortable and more confident. For example, despite popular misconception – every body is a bikini body no matter how much you may weigh. Unlearning negative thoughts and beginning to love your body will open so many doors when it comes to your confidence. So, if you’ve had some clothes in your basket for a while but haven’t purchased them as you think you won’t look good – it’s time to hit that purchase button. 

Have a digital detox. Social media is a great way to grow businesses or connect with family and friends-  however, it’s also a great way to destroy your confidence. This is due to the fact that we often compare ourselves to the pictures we see on our feeds. However, it’s important to remember that nobody looks as good in real life as they do on Instagram – not even influencers. Each picture has been carefully selected (sometimes from hundreds of other photos) to help someone feel their best – and the images are often edited too. Realizing this is a great way to boost your confidence – but it is also worthwhile to participate in a  social media detox from time to time. Furthermore, you should unfollow or mute any social media accounts that cause you to feel bad about yourself. 

Celebrate your success. Sometimes, a lack of confidence is caused by the fact that we feel as though we are not where we should be in life. For example, you may feel as though you aren’t quite progressing quickly enough in your career or that you haven’t hit the goals you set for yourself. You can combat this issue by learning to celebrate every success – no matter how small it may seem. Success comes in many forms outside of your professional life. For example, it can also be measured by how happy you feel, the relationships you maintain, or the impact that you have on others. Learning to celebrate yourself means that you will stop seeking validation from others – which in turn, will help your confidence develop naturally. It’s also a great way to fight off imposter syndrome or the idea that you are not good enough. It also lets you know that you are on the right track when it comes to your long-term goals – as every step forward is a step in the right direction, even if it’s a tentative one. 

Challenge yourself. Confidence is sometimes a prize that we earn when we have achieved something new or reached a goal that we set ourselves. After all, it will instill your faith in your skills and abilities and encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone more often. Therefore, one way in which you can boost your confidence is by challenging yourself more often. For example, if you feel unfulfilled in your career – it may be time to look into alternative career paths that align more closely with your interests and passions. For example, if you’re a globe-trotter with a passion for adventure, there are plenty of careers for those who love traveling for you to pursue. 

Stay fit & healthy. Adapting to a healthy lifestyle is another great way to boost your confidence and start taking better care of your body. After all, you’ll naturally feel a little more confident and comfortable when you are in better shape. However, it is important to remember that being fit and healthy will mean different things to do to different people – and you must go at your own pace. For example, if you’d had a little break from exercising during the pandemic – don’t jump back in with a HIIT workout. Instead, start small and build up the intensity of your exercise naturally. Furthemore, healthy eating does not need to be a hassle – and it doesn’t mean that you need to start counting every single calorie. Instead, focus on balance and moderation – and make sure that you eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you often find that you are too busy to cook during the week, try your hand at meal prepping ahead of time so that you are less likely to reach for that takeout menu. Furthermore, when trying to follow a healthier lifestyle, you should also ensure that you drink plenty of water and get enough rest. Both of these factors will help you get on the right path when it comes to health and happiness and, in turn, boost your confidence in surprising ways. For example, good hydration and being well-rested will give your skin a natural, healthy glow. 

Start putting yourself first. Many different factors could knock your confidence – but one way in which you can combat this is by letting go of people-pleasing tendencies and putting yourself first. This applies to all aspects of your life, from your relationships to your workplace. Again, this will enable you to focus on what you really want from life – which in turn, will help you grow your confidence as you become the most authentic version of yourself. For example, knowing your limits and advocating for yourself when you need a break or to blow off some steam is a great way to get started. It is also important that you are able to put yourself first when it comes to your relationships – whether they be romantic or platonic. For example, if you notice that you spend time with someone who constantly drags you down, you can lift your confidence up by speaking out about what is happening or even cutting them out entirely. Friendship or romantic relationships should never come at the cost of your happiness. Instead, focus on spending time with people who make you feel good about yourself – as they are the people who are deserving of your time and energy. 

Fake it till you make it. This is perhaps the most important piece of advice on this list – as for many, confidence already feels performative. However, the more confident you pretend to be, the easier it will come to you in reality. Essentially, you have to trick your mind into realizing exactly how great you are. You can practice this by practicing positive affirmations or simply being kinder to yourself. You can also work on your body language – as this too can affect your confidence. Push your shoulders back and hold your head high! 

In short, there are various steps that you can use to boost your confidence – but many of them simply revolve around learning to love and accept who you are. Do not let others dictate your happiness or make you believe you should look, act or think in a certain way – as the only person who should be in control of your life is you. While this can be a hard challenge to tackle, you’ll thank yourself later for overcoming these challenges. Putting yourself first and accepting your so-called flaws will enable you to live your best (and most confident) life.