Self-Confidence

I think there are two parts to building up self-confidence.  The building requires setting goals and achieving them.  The second part is protecting yourself from anyone who might want to take away your well-earned self-confidence.

Setting Goals

Self-confidence doesn’t come in pill form.  It comes from actually doing things.  Taking the first steps can be scary, and sometimes the phrase “Fake it ‘til you make it” can help.  Put yourself out there, and you’ll soon see your self-confidence increasing.  Start with small things, and work your way up to your dreams.  Do you want to build your self-confidence even faster?  Help someone else increase theirs!  It’s a win-win.

Protecting Your Self-confidence

Self-confidence is a very important part of being an effective human.  It is not selfish or arrogant.  Self-confident people rarely whine. It is really nice to be around self-confident people. Self-confident people get things done.   

However, I have to admit there are some jealous and bullying types who take as their mission in life tearing down the self-confidence of others.  So protect yourself from these controlling types.  Be aware they exist, and that they do this to everyone—NOT JUST YOU.  Get away from them. 

If you must interact with these unfortunates, set your rules: 

“I do not tolerate abusive language.”

“My workout time is sacred, I must leave at 5.”

Do not engage in useless arguments.  Find other self-confident people to support you in positive ways.  Don’t let the bully make you cringe; stand up tall, look them in the eye and state your position.  Well-done! 

This blog post from Junonia was created for Moms on the Run, a Minnesota-based organization about Fitness, Fun, and Friendship with 5k training classes for runners, intermediates and walkers. Check out the organization at  www.momsontherun.com

Tips from Anne Kelly, President of www.junonia.com, specialists in plus size active and casual clothing.