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How to build your self-confidence in 2026

 

     Happy New Year! While we move into the new year, how are we feeling about ourselves and what do do we want to accomplish in 2026? If you sets goals to make improvements to your life this year, increasing self-confidence can help with that. According to Oxford dictionary, self-confidence is a feeling of trust in one's abilities, qualities and judgement. More importantly, self-confidence is acceptance of self. I pride myself on highlighting the importance of self-love in your life and there is a direct correlation between the two: self-love involves knowing and appreciating your worth which is the foundation for confidence to grow. There is a science behind uncovering ways to enhance self-confidence. There are the most conventional ways which include improving your habits, environment, and enhancing your positive self-talk. However, there are also more innovative (beyond the box) ways to boost your self-confidence this year. Note, that in order to grow, you must step out of your comfort zones. With that said, let me talk about ways that I build my self-confidence.

1. Self-expression- Express yourself. What empowers you? What lifts your spirits? What lights your fire within? For me, I utilize my creative abilities and professional knowledge to to help others. My self-expression shows up in my social media ( X and Instagram @victimassistant). Self expression is the act of communicating your inner, true self. The best self expressions is expression without fear. Self expression increases your confidence because you are empowering yourself. 

2. Taking "micro-risks". Micro risks are small steps towards a new activity or direction. Micro risks is typically a project management term but, also has a meaning in personal development. I have benefited greatly from taking micro risks in the last few years. It is a scary act of courage in an effort for a greater good. Taking micro risks builds self confidence by rewiring your brain to handle uncertainty. Examples of micro risks can include:trying new food, speaking up in a meeting, sharing creative ideas.

3. Engage in personal, human contact again. Socialize and network more. I am not afraid to be solo at events or go to an event where I do not know anyone. I used to go to a quarterly meet and greet with other professionals, in the organization I worked for, from different departments; and we would simply play a question game and rotated groups. I challenged myself to engage in this meet and greet because I knew in the end it would benefit me. I also knew that everyone there had a similar goal, meet someone new and expand your network so the scariness of it all faded. 

4. Remind yourself of who you are. Are you wearing a social mask or are you being your authentic self?Me living my truth, speaking my truth, and being authentic is important for growth. Be honest with with yourself, are you living in a space of truth? If not, do some shadow work. If you are being true to self, make sure you ask your self daily if your activities and intentions match your true self. This sort of reflection is needed to keep ourselves in check and reality. 

5. Everything is a lesson. Making mistakes and owning them is power! I treat every obstacle and unfortunate situation as a lesson to learn from. It is also the secret to my success and happiness in life.Alchemy. Turning a negative into a growth opportunity. So take that L, it will help you grow your confidence.

6. Finally, Treat Yo Self. Self-care not only improves your mental and physical health, but it also sends a message to your brain that you are worthy of everything your heart desires. Self-care boosts confidence.You are what you put out and you get what you put out. 

Studies show that lifelong learners are more likely to maintain higher levels of self confidence. Engaging in these activities and maintaining a growth mindset this year will help you in your quest toachieve higher self confidence. Remember to track your progress to help you stay on your path.

You're welcome. 

Andrea Sierra, The Victim Assistant, Crime Victim AdvocateWe are all survivors. Join my Patreon community, a place for advocacy, self-love, and healing. 

Listen to my Podcast: The Victim Assistant where I talk about crime and victimization.

https://linktr.ee/thevictimassistant

Feel free to email me at thevictimassistant@gmail.com 

#selfdevelopment


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