Confidence is a coveted character trait both men and women constantly seek and spend their lives striving to build. With confidence comes fearlessness and a sense of assurance that we all need to live our own truths amid life’s uncertainties. Unfortunately, not everyone is born with it; especially for women who live in underprivileged societies where they are still seen as a “minority,” it is very hard to build confidence and claim their own powers and decide how they want to live their lives. In the age of the internet and social media, young girls have a hard time feeling good about themselves when the media is using their own misleading definition of beauty to define self-worth, leaving girls’ confidence shaken as they don’t know where they—real girls—fit in such a world.
That’s why it’s important to discuss the ways in which we can teach girls—and women—about having confidence, and how to build it.
Aim for self-acceptance
Amid our busy schedules, it takes a lot of practice to take the time to care for ourselves and our well-being. All women should make it a habit to visit a women’s health clinic at least once a month to stay on top of their health status. It’s very important to address any issues that might be affecting the way you see yourself, and in turn, your confidence. If you decide that working with a nutritionist to help you stay in shape would consequently boost your confidence; then by all means, go for it! Or, if your uneven teeth are making you self-conscious and stopping you from smiling comfortably in public, then book that dentist appointment. But keep in mind that it is all about your own self-acceptance and not for validation from anyone else.
Empower yourself with education
Knowledge is power, and with power comes confidence. Seek education beyond the walls of school and college. Invest in self-development and try to learn new things. Whenever possible, travel abroad to learn about different cultures and expand your horizons. Aim to be a woman of depth; this way, you’ll be able to talk to all sorts of people and engage in different discussions as if it just comes naturally to you—and there is nothing that says “confidence” like carrying yourself with poise and grace. Not only will this help you socially, but also in your career; you are much more likely to get that promotion when you are backed with facts and are educated about your firm’s promotion process when presenting your case to your boss.
Know that you are unique
Although this has been said so many times, over and over again to women around the world that it became some sort of a cliché; only a few people actually own this belief and live by it. When you realize your own individuality and that you truly are one of a kind, you will not compare yourself to others or try to be something that you are not just because it is what’s “liked” nowadays. Your confidence will come from the realization that there is only one “you” and your life is governed by your own convictions, values, and beliefs. No one gets to dictate how you should look or dress in order to “fit in.” In fact, you should aim to stand out; this is how you build confidence by knowing your own worth and then capitalizing on it.
Be inspired by other women in charge
When a young girl grows up seeing women in powerful positions leading big corporations or significant governmental bodies, it allows her to dream bigger and aim for bigger goals, because now they are more relatable. This way, she will grow up to be a confident woman who knows that she, too, can aspire to be the next woman president or head a trip to outer space; she has seen it before and will continue to push boundaries for other girls coming after her.
Lose your self-doubt
There is no shame in admitting that we make mistakes or doubting a decision after revisiting a certain situation. However, this should by no means turn into an attitude where you second-guess every single thing you do, fearing that maybe someone was offended or maybe you were too harsh. You are better off standing by your actions and owning up to mistakes if and when they come up.
By building her confidence, a woman will live up to her potential and lead a life of fulfillment, hopefully inspiring young girls around her to do the same. If you have been struggling to achieve this, you should know that you’re not alone—you can embark on this journey of seeking the help of others around you, whether it’s through an online community, a good book, some professional help, or friendly advice.
