Self-confidence is a powerful tool that influences how we navigate through life. Building self-assurance doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort and a few intentional activities, you can transform your mindset and embrace your full potential.
Whether you’re just beginning your self-confidence journey or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your practice, this guide offers actionable steps to nurture and grow your inner confidence.
1. Practice Self-Confidence Affirmations
Positive affirmations can rewire your mindset by replacing self-doubt with empowering beliefs. The first thing I do every morning is look myself in the eyes in a mirror and say, “Grand rising beautiful, I love you.” At first it started as an affirmation, now it’s a way to reaffirm my commitment to self-love.
Throughout the day, I use a collection of affirmations and mantras when I’m stressed, upset, or impatient about how my day or week is going. Some of my favorites are:
- The more I rest, the more I receive
- I am worthy of happiness and success
- I deserve my desires
- I am perfectly on time
- I am worthy of my wishes
Repeating phrases like these regularly can help reinforce a more confident outlook.
2. Read Self-Confidence Books
Dive into books that inspire and provide actionable tips for building self-confidence. Titles like The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman or You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero offer practical advice and motivational insights.
I currently have The Pivot Year by Brianna Wiest and Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given on my list for 2025 and I cannot wait to get into them.
3. Engage in Self-Confidence Activities
Find activities that challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone. This could be as simple as speaking up in meetings, trying a new hobby, or participating in a group exercise class. Small wins in new environments build trust in your abilities.
4. Try Guided Meditation for Self-Confidence
Guided meditations are a soothing way to address insecurities and promote inner peace. Apps like Calm and Insight Timer offer sessions specifically designed to boost self-confidence by helping you focus on your strengths and let go of fear. You can also find great guided meditations on YouTube.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to meditating and want to make it a daily practice, try habit stacking! This means adding a new habit onto an existing habit. I always try to meditate or repeat my daily affirmations while walking my dog in the morning.
5. Start a Self-Confidence Journal
Dedicate a notebook to tracking your growth. Write down affirmations, successes, and moments of courage. Revisiting these entries can remind you of your progress and provide a confidence boost when needed.
If you’re anything like me, sometimes it’s easier to keep up with a daily journaling practice in a digital environment. I really like the Diarly app on my laptop. It has daily gratitude prompts and end of the day reflection prompts that help me carve out time for mindful reflection.
However, I suggest balancing digital entries with manual, written entries when you can!
6. Use Self-Confidence Journal Prompts
Journaling is a reflective practice that helps you process emotions and recognize your progress. Use prompts such as:
- What are three things I love about myself?
- When have I overcome a challenge successfully?
- What makes me feel empowered?
- What practices make me feel more positive about myself or my life?
7. Listen to Self-Confidence Songs
Music has the power to uplift your mood and reinforce positive thinking. Create a playlist featuring empowering songs like “The Good in Me” by Jon Bellion or “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson. Let these tunes energize and motivate you to take on the day.
8. Set Achievable Goals
Breaking down big aspirations into smaller, manageable goals can prevent overwhelm and set you up for success. When you’re starting a big project or beginning to build your dream life, outline the milestones you want to celebrate.
Whether it’s publishing 50 social media posts or securing a small business loan, outlining the steps you want to take and pairing them with a way to commemorate that step in the process is critical. Celebrating each milestone, no matter how small, builds momentum and self-assurance. Some of my milestone rewards are as simple as getting dinner with friends or buying myself a new ring, while the other
9. Practice Gratitude
Confidence grows when we focus on what we have rather than what we lack. Each day, list three things you’re grateful for. This practice shifts your perspective to abundance and positivity. To make the most of this habit, try these tips:
- Start your morning by noting three things you’re thankful for, no matter how small. This sets a positive tone for the day.
- Write your gratitude list in a dedicated journal to reflect on during moments of doubt.
- Use affirmations like, “I am grateful for the abundance in my life,” or “I attract positivity and confidence with every thought.”
- Pair this practice with deep breathing or a quiet moment of reflection to let gratitude fully sink in.
10. Surround Yourself with Positive People
Your environment significantly impacts your confidence. Spend time with people who uplift and encourage you, whether it’s supportive friends, family, or mentors who believe in your potential. Seek out communities or groups where positivity and growth are emphasized. Let go of relationships that drain your energy or make you question your worth.
If cutting ties feels challenging, start by setting boundaries to protect your mental space. Surrounding yourself with affirming people reinforces your belief in your abilities and creates a foundation for long-term confidence. Remember, quality of relationships matters more than quantity.
Related: How to Build Self Care Into Your Daily Routine
11. Embrace Self-Compassion
Treat yourself with kindness when things don’t go as planned. Instead of criticizing yourself for mistakes, view them as opportunities for growth. Practice reframing negative self-talk by asking, “What can I learn from this experience?” or reminding yourself, “It’s okay to make mistakes; they help me grow.” My favorite go-to phrase is, “I deserve grace and kindness, I’m doing my best.”
Self-compassion fosters resilience and confidence by allowing you to bounce back stronger. Incorporate calming practices like deep breathing, box breathing, or mindfulness to ground yourself in moments of self-doubt. Remember, being gentle with yourself creates space for personal growth and reinforces the belief that you are deserving of kindness, especially from yourself.
12. Wear What Makes You Feel Good
What you wear can influence how you feel about yourself — this is a concept I learned almost all too late. Choosing outfits that not only make you feel confident but also align with your personal style and values can make you feel like you’re ready to conquer the world. Dressing in a way that feels authentic to you can enhance your self-esteem and help you express your identity.
Whether it’s a power suit for a meeting, your favorite cozy sweater for a casual outing, or a bold accessory that makes a statement, wear what brings you joy. Remember, the key is to dress in a way that empowers you to show up as your best self.
Pro tip: You don’t have to replace your entire closet during a weekend shopping spree. Shopping mindfully is the best way to build a wardrobe that you love!
13. Listen to Your Intuition
Your intuition is a powerful inner guide that always knows what’s best for you before your conscious mind does. Take time to listen to that voice, whether it’s steering you away from something that feels off or nudging you toward a bold opportunity. Trusting your gut can build self-assurance over time.
It’s also a practice! The more you take action based on your intuition, the louder and easier it gets to hear that little whisper in your soul.
14. Learn a New Skill
Acquiring a new skill not only expands your abilities but also boosts your confidence. Whether it’s learning a new language, cooking a new recipe, or taking an online course, mastering something new reminds you of your capability.
15. Reflect on Your Achievements
Take time to reflect on your accomplishments, big or small. Create a list of proud moments and revisit it when self-doubt creeps in. Acknowledging your achievements reinforces your self-worth.
Embrace Your Boldest Self
Building self-confidence is a journey filled with ups and downs, but with consistent effort, you can create a stronger, more assured version of yourself. Incorporate these activities into your routine and watch as your confidence grows over time.
Remember, you are capable, worthy, and deserving of success. The journey begins with believing in yourself.
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