How to improve your self-confidence 

Having low self-confidence can affect every aspect of your life, whether it’s an everyday occurrence or you’re just experiencing it here and there. It is just one element of the myriad of things that make up our overall sense of confidence but when it’s not at its highest, you notice. 

A recent poll found that out of 2,000 adults, 46% are struggling with their self-confidence and more than a third report that their levels of self-belief are at an all-time low. That is why it’s important to develop coping strategies if you feel that you are struggling with low self-confidence. 

What is self-confidence? 

Self-confidence is often used interchangeably with self-esteem, which undoubtedly overlaps but are different. Self-esteem is concerned with whether you appreciate and value yourself, whereas self-confidence is the belief you have in yourself and your abilities. 

Both can result in negative feelings, even depression in some cases, but if you’re feeling low because you’re unsure about your capabilities and skills then that’s your self-confidence talking. 

How can self-confidence be affected?

Self-confidence is fragile and can be damaged by anything from an everyday interaction to a major life event. You may have been bullied due to your appearance in your youth, or you worry about what your peers and colleagues think about you. 

There may be a connection to your love life. For example, due to a mental or medical condition, you may feel as though you aren’t meeting the mark in your relationship sexually. If you feel as though you’re letting your partner down due to erectile dysfunction, try reaching out to your pharmacist or GP to see if they can help. 

While it could also stem from your childhood where your parents or siblings were critical of you, low self-confidence regarding finances and careers is very common. Research conducted by The Prince’s Trust found that the COVID pandemic has impacted young people’s self-confidence in their future careers and skills for work. 

Ways to build up self-confidence 

If you identify with any of the above, know that you’re not alone and that there are ways that you can build your self-confidence. Some include:

Avoiding negativity 

Taking time away from anyone that brings you down can give you the mental space to look at things differently and build a support network that builds you up rather than knocking you down. 

Eating healthily 

A healthy diet goes hand in hand with a healthy mind and can give you the energy that prepares you for anything that comes your way. 

Reaching out 

There is no need to suffer in silence – if you’re struggling with low confidence reach out to your loved ones or even a healthcare professional to get the help you need.