Cover Studies have shown that confidence is closely linked with mental health and better confidence and improve your overall wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
Studies have shown that confidence is closely linked with mental health and better confidence and improve your overall wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
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Confidence affects everything from mental health to career growth. Here are some ways to better cultivate it
Confidence is a cornerstone of wellbeing, serving as the foundation for a fulfilling and successful life. It influences how we perceive ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we approach challenges.
In his book Self-Efficacy: The Exercise of Control, esteemed psychologist Albert Bandura highlighted the importance of self-efficacy, a form of confidence, in achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.
In fact, confidence is also closely linked to mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, a strong sense of self-worth can reduce anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Studies published by the association show that individuals with higher self-esteem report better overall happiness and life satisfaction.
Sheryl Sandberg, the former chief operating officer of Facebook in her book Lean In, emphasises that confidence can help individuals seize opportunities and break barriers in their professional lives.
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Here are some ways to boost your confidence:
Set realistic goals
Above To overcome tough milestones, try to break down and set smaller goals on how you can achieve these specific tasks (Photo: Pixabay)
To overcome tough milestones, try to break down and set smaller goals on how you can achieve these specific tasks (Photo: Pixabay)
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Break down large objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieving these milestones can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence. American psychologist Dr Edwin Locke’s Goal-Setting Theory outlines how specific and challenging goals, coupled with feedback, enhance performance and self-confidence.
Practice self-compassion
Above Being compassionate towards oneself can reduce self-criticism and doubt (Photo: Pixabay)
Being compassionate towards oneself can reduce self-criticism and doubt (Photo: Pixabay)
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Meanwhile, academic Kristen Neff says you should treat yourself with kindness and understanding during failures. Neff, an advocate for self-compassion, says that being compassionate towards oneself can reduce self-criticism and improve emotional resilience.
Positive affirmations
Above Repeating affirmations can reinforce a positive self-image and counteract negative thoughts (Photo: Pixabay)
Repeating affirmations can reinforce a positive self-image and counteract negative thoughts (Photo: Pixabay)
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Engage in positive self-talk. Repeating affirmations can reinforce a positive self-image and counteract negative thoughts. A study from the University of Pennsylvania showed that repeating self-affirmations produces physical changes in brain regions associated with self-processing, ultimately impacting their view of themselves, and these changes are associated with subsequent positive changes in people’s behaviour.
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Embrace physical activity
Above Regular exercise benefits physical health and enhances mental wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
Regular exercise benefits physical health and enhances mental wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
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Regular exercise benefits physical health and enhances mental wellbeing and self-esteem. Numerous reports and studies have shown that physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps reduce stress.
Learn new skills
Above Acquiring new skills or hobbies can be great for self-confidence (Photo: Pixabay)
Acquiring new skills or hobbies can be great for self-confidence (Photo: Pixabay)
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Acquiring new skills or hobbies can enhance self-efficacy. Malcolm Gladwell, in his book Outliers, discusses how mastery and practice in any field can build confidence through competence. This process also involves stepping out of your comfort zone and thus embracing challenges, which can help with personal growth through continuous learning and practice.
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Surround yourself with supportive people
Above A network of positive individuals in your social circle can be reinforcing for your confidence and wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
A network of positive individuals in your social circle can be reinforcing for your confidence and wellbeing (Photo: Pexels)
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Build a network of positive and encouraging individuals. Social support from friends, family, and mentors can provide validation and encouragement, reinforcing your self-belief. Positive relationships can provide encouragement, motivation, and constructive feedback, helping you navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and assurance.
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Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
