How to be Confident

It's no secret, confidence is sexy. We are drawn to those who appear self-assured. Confident people get exactly what they want from life because they know who they are and what it is they want. Whether you are simply more reserved or severely shy, these simple tips will help you to master the art of confidence. 

Appearing Confident:

1. If you are feeling socially uncomfortable, take a deep breathe. It's important to take a minute to become aware of your surroundings and compose yourself. Roll back your shoulders and stand as if a string is pulling you up straight. Posture is important, it radiates a sense of inner comfortability. 

2. Slow Down. Nervous people tend to speak quickly, causing them to stutter. Think carefully about what you say. If you get nervous talking in front of people (such as during a speech) talk more slowly than you would usually, and remember to breathe. 

3. Smile! Smiling will trick your brain into thinking everything is fine, and it will help you to relax. Remember, shoulders back! 

4. Use eye contact. This tip is extremely important. 

5. Kick nervous habits such as shuffling feet, twirling hair, cracking knuckles or biting nails. 

Remember - "Fake it 'till you make it!" Appearing confident will help you to realize that the situation is no big deal. You can handle anything if you stride in with confidence and poise. 

Being Confident: 

True confidence comes from within. You can not expect this to appear overnight, or to be learned in a day. To be confident, you need to accept yourself wholly and completely. You need to realize that you are the single most important individual in your life. You need to take care of yourself, and look up for yourself. Confidence is standing up for yourself when someone puts you down. It is holding yourself to a higher standard because you are worth more. Confidence is realizing how beautiful you are, inside and out.

Here are a few tips:

1. Think positively. It sounds ridiculous, but tell yourself a compliment each day in the mirror. Smile at yourself. Confidence is positivity. 

2. Be generous. Do something for a friend, or for charity. It helps you realize just what you can do for other people. 

3. Take care of yourself. Work out, eat healthily. Take pride in your appearance. 

4. Surround yourself with people who love you. If your friends treat you poorly, abandon the relationship. I have been in enough toxic friendships to tell you they are not worth it. They can really deliver a blow to your confidence. 

Good luck! xoxo