Self-limiting beliefs may have convinced us to focus on what we can’t do or what might never be possible. Instead, take on an uncomfortable situation or try something new and see what happens. Should you succeed at it, you can permanently shut down many self- limiting beliefs.
Don’t always rely on your memory for accurate information
Our brain’s memory does not store information in the same way it was originally presented
- What we see and remember is based on our pre-existing beliefs, values, and self-perception
- To counteract that reaction, improve your self-image and build confidence, it is important to get other perspectives on these situations
Don’t compare yourself
Nothing good comes out of comparing yourself to others
- If you must compare, then use yourself as the measuring stick
- You may be able to see just how far you have come
- Those accomplishments are what should keep you striving to do better
Confidence starts with you
Remind yourself that you can choose to be confident
- Once you start believing what you tell yourself, confidence levels can rise along with success, happiness, and satisfaction
- You can make decisions and choices, and ultimately, be confident in yourself
Overcome self-doubt
If you lack self-confidence, you will always feel like you’re at the mercy of other people
- FBI agents go where they are needed, not to where they feel most comfortable
- Drop me into the middle of any squad or any situation, anywhere, anytime, I will not be scared because I am confident I will succeed
Gain control by facing your fears
When we feel we are in control, there is a sense of confidence and comfort that surrounds us. It’s when we are afraid that we feel the most out of control.
- Go after what scares you
- The result of taking such action makes you more confident because you feel more capable and secure.
Talk yourself out of negative self-talk
Positive affirmations transform your mindset
- Remind yourself of your capabilities and accomplishments
- “Pep” talks help you work through a challenge by reflecting on what you can do
- Through proactive discussions with yourself, you stop focusing on the fear that you won’t be able to solve a problem
Identify where you lack confidence and what can give you confidence
Focus on areas where you are already confident.
- Thinking about situations where you felt empowered can help you re-tap those emotions or actions to use for the areas you still feel self-doubt.
Get new skills and experience
Take classes that will help you acquire new skills
Counter negative thoughts with positive ones
To do so, you will need to stifle each negative thought with multiple positive thoughts
- Have positive affirmations ready to say to yourself or out loud
- Reflect on each positive notion before saying or thinking another one
- Do not ignore or suppress negative thoughts, they will still be there to chip away at your self-confidence later on
Be curious
Curiosity can help you grow
- Motivate you to try new things and be open to fresh perspectives and ideas
- Any positive results you create will build your self-confidence
- Being curious can point you in new directions that you didn’t know were possible
