Confidence has been an ongoing journey of mine for years. I often find myself questioning my beliefs and actions — considering the fact that I could always be wrong and that there may be a better option than the one I’m choosing. This translates into my confidence, the uncertainty of my decisions and the hesitation in expressing my thoughts. If you find yourself in a similar boat, hopefully these tips will help you change your mindset and actions to have a little more faith in yourself.

Prioritize physical and mental health 

Physical health is something that always comes first and foremost. When I exercise, eat well and get good sleep, it directly translates to my mood and energy, along with a straighter posture, clearer skin and increased daily motivation. It affects my confidence. They don’t call it “power pose” for no reason, because the well-being of your mind really does follow your body. Being physically and mentally healthy will help you be bolder in your decisions and execution, not to mention many first impressions inevitably come from appearance and aura. This goes a long way for your personal confidence.

Know your strengths

Take some time to reflect on what you’re good at, and hone in on those strengths. Put yourself in environments where you know you can perform well — maybe that’s a basketball court, a music studio or a friend’s couch where you’re giving emotional support. Everyone has their own unique talent, so find yours and share it with others. Wear clothes that highlight your favorite features and develop a morning routine that makes you feel your best self. If it helps, you can also try out methods that help reiterate these strengths, such as speaking daily affirmations or keeping a success journal.

Share your insecurities

Our instincts tell us to hide our flaws. However, try sharing them instead. Sharing your insecurities will allow you to be more confident, because now, you have nothing to hide. A lack of confidence often comes from not believing, or not being proud of, a part of yourself. Sharing is a powerful method of gaining courage and building community. If they treat you differently based on your flaws, then phew, you dodged a bullet. Same for being afraid of being wrong — everyone makes mistakes. The worst that can happen by sharing your possibly incorrect thought is a moment of admitting you were mistaken and correcting your knowledge.  There is nothing to be ashamed of.

Focus on yourself

Many times, we are so caught up in wondering what others think. Try to harness that focus on yourself. When walking through a crowd or speaking in front of an audience, don’t think, “What would others think of me?” Instead, think “I feel great today” and deliver the story you want to tell. Think about your morals and values and plan out your goals. Set them firmly for yourself, regardless of what others around you say or do. Establish your own style, standards and opinions. As long as it’s not harming anyone, embrace it, announce it and own it.

I’m confident that these tips will help you become more confident. You can do it!