Build Self-Confidence

Shattered self-confidence has a variety of outward indicators. There are many signs that self-confidence has suffered some blows and weakened.

If you have excessive fear abut the opinions of others, you may have a dent in your self-confidence. Everyone has an opinion about almost everything, but that does not make an opinion the truth. It simply means that the person spouting the opinion views the situation in a particular way - their way! Don't worry about these various opinions. Remember, your opinion has as much merit as that of the most eloquent speaker.

Are you fearful of new situations? We can only grow when we stretch and move outside our comfort zone. If this is an area that plagues you, try facing a new situation that doesn't have a lot of risk involved. As you succeed in a new situation, look for the next new situation with a little more risk.

Is your cup always "half empty"? If we focus on the mistakes we've made (and everyone has plenty of errors and missteps to their credit), we can slip into the dangerous habit of viewing everything with a negative mindset. Instead, review your accomplishments and successes, especially when negativity tries to take hold of your thoughts.

How do you react to compliments? If you are uncomfortable with simple compliments you may feel unworthy and somewhere along the way, your self-esteem and self-confidence has been painfully bruised. The next time you receive a compliment, don't analyze it - just say "thank you".

How do you react to constructive criticism? Does that little voice in your head start condemning you? You knew all along they didn't like you! Of course, you did things wrong - you always do! This destructive thinking will keep you from learning and moving forward. Consider the source of the criticism, give it some serious thought and there may or may not be a lesson to learn.

There are so many missed opportunities because of low self-confidence. How can you advance in your career, if the thought of a job interview creates paralyzing fear?