April Core Value | CONFIDENCE

As we talk about confidence we wanted to first focus on self-confidence: the general view of yourself and how likely you believe you can accomplish and meet goals. 

Practical Ways to Improve Your Confidence (and why you should)

The New York Times has written a practical list of different ways to improve your confidence and they have sited that high confidence leads to more chances to improve. Believing in yourself matters. According to Charlie Houpert, the author of "Charisma on Command", confidence doesn't just make you feel better, it also helps you take risks to make tangible improvements to your life." Here are a few ideas to try this month:

Try things that make you uncomfortable. 

• "This can involve more daunting changes, like taking a new job or confronting someone you usually avoid. However, it can also take smaller forms, like striking up a conversation with someone new if you’re normally shy, or trying a new food. According to Mr. Houpert, it’s more important that you regularly expand your comfort zone rather than occasionally throwing yourself into the deep end."

Defy your impostor syndrome.

• "Impostor syndrome is a nasty mental bug that convinces you that your accomplishments don't really count. This doubt can creep in because it's easier to remember faults but more difficult to remember successes. Make a habit of periodically writing down or reflecting on times you've done things well. It's easier to be confident in your abilities when you remember them."

Adjust your posture.

• "The posture you adopt can affect how you feel about yourself. While it might feel a little silly at first (remember that tip about stepping outside your comfort zone), trying out powerful stances can help adjust your frame of mind. Research from Ohio State University suggests that something as simple as sitting up straight can make you feel more confident in what you're doing."