Boost your self-confidence

Have you ever had one of those days when you just feel a bit out of sorts, for no particular reason? I usually go to bed early when that happens, and wake up feeling much better the next day. But recently I had a couple of days in a row when I felt like this.

I was talking about it on the phone to my friend Charlotte and she had some great tips. They worked really well, because I started to feel much better straight away. So I thought maybe I could share them with you here.

1. Smiling makes you happy

Have you ever had a day when you just don’t feel like smiling? We all know that smiling is good for you. But did you know that fake smiles work too? Your brain sees smiling as a signal that you’re happy. So if you try to smile even when it doesn’t come naturally, you’ll end up actually feeling more cheerful.

2. Get dressed up

When you’re a bit low, you often don’t feel like putting much effort into your appearance. But it turns out that getting dressed up is one of the best pick-me-ups out there. Choose a nice outfit, do your hair, paint your nails. All these things will help to lift your spirits when you catch sight of yourself in the mirror.

3. Challenge yourself

Do something you’ve never done before, or something you don’t do often. It doesn’t have to be big. Stop and chat to a stranger on the street. Buy some flowers for the nice man at the bookshop.

4. Look for inspiration

I love quotes. You can find loads on Pinterest. Some of them put a smile on my face straight away. There are lots of positive affirmations that can help to boost your self-confidence too. Happy reading!

5. You are loved

Do you have any chalk pens at home? Why not go around the house writing a nice message on every mirror? Try: You are loved. They’re bound to put a smile on the face of anyone who looks into them.

6. Silence that little voice

I think women in particular will be familiar with this one. The little voice in your head that passes comment on everything you do. Criticising yourself, doubting whether something is good, nice or pretty enough. It’s not easy to silence that little voice but, if you can, it will do wonders for your self-confidence.

7. Sing in the shower

Bring some music into the bathroom with you. Find your favourite song, jump under the shower and sing along! Fantastic. Don’t hold back, sing loud and proud!