Eight ways to feel confident by thinking | Types of learning | Courses and learning | National Careers Service

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Eight ways to feel confident by thinking

Self-confidence comes from within and from how you see yourself. Try these suggestions for changing the way you see yourself and your future.

1. Challenge negative thoughts about yourself

Are you being fair on yourself? Putting yourself down can become a habit and is not helpful. Think about why you do this. For example - "I could never do a management job - I'm just not the type”. Is this true? What makes you think you couldn't do it? Is it something somebody said? Why do you think you don't believe in yourself? Challenge this!

2. Challenge excuses

If you make excuses for not taking action, repeat them back to yourself to see how they sound. Are they really a good excuse? They probably aren’t...

3. Accept yourself

Identify your strengths and weaknesses. You should be proud of your strengths and make the most of them. However, everyone has weaknesses and makes mistakes. If you understand your own weaknesses but don’t let them hold you back, you are doing really well.

4. Positive thinking

Imagine where you want to be, rather than where you feel you will end up. Imagining a positive future for yourself is very empowering.

5. Take responsibility for yourself

Accept that your direction in life is up to you and your actions. Blaming bad luck and other things you can't control will hold you back. Unexpected events do occur, and a few things may be beyond your control, but it's mainly you and your actions that shape your future. At first this can seem like too much responsibility, but soon you will feel more confident and in control.

6. Learn to deal with failure and rejection

We all fail or are rejected at some stage in our lives. But it's better to try and fail than never try at all. Some of the most confident and successful people spent years being rejected before they got where they are. If you think about the reasons why you failed, you will learn, and you'll have a better chance of success next time.

7. Nerves are normal

It's normal to feel nervous when in a challenging situation, such as an interview. Being a bit nervous can actually focus your mind on the task and make you as sharp as possible. Think about why you are nervous, try to get rid of negative thoughts and imagine yourself succeeding. Stay positive.

8. Don't worry about what others think

Try not to allow the opinions of others to diminish your self-worth. Don’t let criticism affect how you see yourself. Don't rely on praise either, as you might not always get it. If you are clear about your own worth, you will feel secure whether you are praised or blamed.