How do people feel more confident in themselves? Is there a class they can take? A course they can buy? I’m sure there is. When it comes to growing in confidence, sometimes the best advice out there is to ‘fake it until you make it. After all, if you begin to present yourself in a certain way and reassure yourself just how great you are – over time, you’ll begin to realize that it’s the truth. However, growing in confidence is often easier said than done – and it can take a long time to build it up to a stage where you feel happy, free, and feeling more confident in your own skin.

With that in mind, here are some top tips that I have found to start building up your confidence and begin living your best life. 

Remember that social media isn’t real.

Whenever you post a certain picture on social media, you’ve probably spent the past few hours editing it. Maybe overlaying different filters, or ensuring that every detail is just right. However, we seem to forget the amount of effort that goes into these pictures when we see them on our timeline. As a result, we begin to think that people look the same on their insta pics as they do in real life. That is so not the case, though! You can give yourself a mini confidence boost by remembering that social media is carefully curated. We all chose to present the best versions of ourselves on there. So, you shouldn’t use it to compare yourself to others based on the images they upload on their socials. 

Have somebody else tell you what you need to hear.

I am a firm believer in podcasts and the self-help section at Barnes & Noble. You should constantly be absorbing materials to help with your personal development. I trust the people that have it figured out, or at least make it seem like they do. That is the trick after all, right? You attract what you absorb so I only allow myself to absorb the good. There is no room for negativity up in here! Find a few good podcasts to help you with your mindset. That will take you the farthest. I highly enjoy Ed Mylett and The Angie Lee Show.

Shake up your look to feel more confident.

Sometimes, we stick to particular looks or styles because we feel comfortable in them – but they don’t necessarily make us feel confident. When it comes to fashion, true confidence only steps in when you freely express yourselves and start dressing in a way that makes you feel like the most authentic version of yourself. I read somewhere that if you wake up feeling off, put on a bright color, and it will change your mood!

Don’t be afraid to try something new – both in regards to the clothes you wear or even how you style your hair. I love bold patterns and bright prints. For example, you could transform your everyday look by experimenting with different hairstyles. However, sometimes I feel super confident when I curl my hair with my favorite curler (click here for my rotating curler). Showing up as my best authentic self gives me the most confidence.

Be your own biggest fan.

Often, we gain confidence based on how others perceive us – whether we feel validated when we receive compliments or more likes on social media than expected. However, sometimes you have to be your own damn cheerleader! Learning to be your own source of confidence can be life-changing. One way in which you can achieve this goal is by simply being more positive about yourself.

I have a bit of a self-confidence morning routine if you will. Each morning, I wake up and go to the window. I like to get some natural light on me. Then I make my bed and say my affirmations. I tell myself three things I like about myself – whether that means I’m complimenting my eyebrows or my perseverance. Let them become your daily mantra – and try to come up with new compliments each day. You could also try your hand at bullet journaling. The more you begin to think positively and compliment yourself, the easier it will be to come up with them, and the more you will recognize the truth behind them. 

What are some of your confidence boosters? Let’s chat in the comments below!