PSA: Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem Tips You Didn’t Know You Needed

Self-confidence and self-esteem tend to go hand in hand, but they aren't the same thing.

Having confidence means that you trust in your abilities. A confident person isn't afraid to go for what they want - because they know they can get it. They rise up to challenges and take risks. A self-confident person knows that a set-back is not reflective of their self worth. Confidence is powerful.

Self-esteem is how we value ourselves. Our esteem is cognitive. It impacts how we think, which in turn influences how we act and interact. Ultimately, it becomes how we are seen in the world. It's important to note that our appraisal of ourselves isn't always accurate.

Below are tips to increase both self-confidence and self-esteem so you can truly live your best life.

Let Go of the Idea That Life Is Linear

Some people think success looks like a straight line pointing upwards. In reality, well, life happens. It's full of ups and downs.

Have faith in yourself and your abilities and know that the 'downs' won't last forever. Avoid victim mentality and tell yourself that you will do whatever it takes to get where you want to be.

You don't need to compare your journey to anyone else's - it's yours. On the hardest days, all you need to do is put one foot in front of the other.

Question Your Inner Critic

I've mentioned this in past blogs, but I'm always hardest on myself. It's easy to quiet that unrealistic, perfectionist voice in my head by saying, "I'm human".

Being wrong or messing up is not a reflection of your worth. As long as you are learning from your mistakes, it isn't a loss. Try affirming yourself like you would a friend instead of being so harsh. Avoid avoid avoid derogatory language.

Most of your life is spent in your head, you might as well make it a nice place to be.

Who's In Your Circle?

It's an indisputable fact that the people you spend time with shape who you are. Choose wisely.

I've had friends in the past who made me feel less than adequate because of their own insecurities. Friends don't try to break you down. Period.

Your circle should always be cheering you on and encouraging you to be the best version of yourself. Surrounding yourself with love and positivity will encourage healthy self-esteem.

Prioritize Yourself

I've said this in past blog posts - but if you aren't putting yourself first, you're putting yourself last.

My confidence skyrockets when I take good care of myself. A healthy body image raises your self-esteem from the inside out. Try to schedule in a workout or plan healthy meals for the week in order to prove to yourself that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

Take some time to plan out outfits that make you feel 10/10. I cycle through the same 3 like a cartoon character and that's okay. Look good, feel good.

Fake It Til You Make It

When I first moved to New York at 18 I had to confidence of an Anne Hathaway movie character (pre-transformation). My boss told me, "Don't walk with your head down, hold it up high". It was uncomfortable at first, but eventually it became my norm.

In college, I learned about 'powerless speech'. Don't hesitate to speak your mind. Don't add tag questions like: "Don't you think?" or "Isn't it?" at the end of all your statements. Be confident in your exchanges and sure of yourself. It takes practice.

Sometimes you just have to fake it til you make it.

Soulvation Society is women-owned and operated.

Our mission is to encourage others to live life to their fullest, to learn from the valleys and to always keep improving yourself.

Our infamous Soulvation logo, the double arrow, signifies following your own path, and to keep moving forward regardless of what life throws in your way.

We hope that when you see our logo it reminds you to keep moving forward, no matter what.