By: Brad Krause

Confidence isn't constant, and it doesn't just appear overnight — it's a project that involves lifelong learning, hard work, and realistic goal setting. You can fine-tune your confidence by leaning into your natural talents and setting yourself up for small wins to gain the momentum to tackle more ambitious pursuits.

Take Care of Your Body and Mind

Consistency leads to confidence-building results, so do what you enjoy. If you need to incorporate more cardio to maintain a healthy weight, don't run if you hate pounding the pavement. Go swimming, or join an aerobic dance class or hiking club if the social aspect motivates you. Increase your consumption of mood-boosting foods, such as nuts, Greek yogurt, and colorful fruits and vegetables, and feed your soul with mindfulness and self-care practices. Last but not least, prioritize sleep. That's easier said than done when you’re part of the rat race, but aim for at least seven hours and you'll make better decisions.

Explore a New Skill 

Accomplishing something new is a confidence booster par excellence. The new skill could be related to your start-up or job, or it could be for fun. List things you've always wanted to know how to do, such as shuffle a deck of cards, whistle with your fingers, juggle, speed read, use a DSLR camera, garden, or chop food like Anthony Bourdain. You never know — a good party trick could come in handy at a networking event.

Start a Business

In the last two years, many people have taken the leap into entrepreneurship. And if you’re keen on a career switch, consider opening a business. Whether this is the origin story of the next Silicon Valley Unicorn or the beginnings of a beloved mom-and-pop shop, fulfilling work fosters self-belief. Create a solid business plan by doing your research. You must highlight a community need, outline your idea and logistics, including how you plan to fund your endeavor, and show how the company can be profitable. This could be the life change you’ve been looking for. 

Refresh Your Resume

If you're looking for a new job, search for a free resume builder that offers professionally-designed online templates to polish your resume. You can customize the words, colors, and graphics to your liking, adding new milestones if relevant, and feel much more excited about your prospects within an hour of tinkering. Updating your resume allows you to reflect on your journey and see how far you've come or how much you'd still like to achieve. 

Sort Your Finances Out

The pandemic wreaked havoc on many bank accounts, and perhaps your financial health could use some help. Draw up a plan to pay off high-interest debt first. Make your lunch rather than eating out, eliminate unnecessary subscriptions, and take advantage of free leisure activities. Refinancing your mortgage at a lower interest rate can also save you some monthly Benjamins. These adjustments make you feel more self-assured moving forward.

Boosting Your Confidence: The Bottom Line 

You lay the foundation for confidence when you make positive lifestyle changes for your health, finances, and happiness at work, and self-care rituals prevent burnout by letting you pause and breathe. Browse Brooklyn Botany's range of consciously crafted self-care products for your moments of zen.