Confidence is built over time, not something we are necessarily born with. When it comes to being a teen girl, especially one in the spotlight, you are constantly growing and facing new challenges. Confidence impacts how you approach your goals and go after what you want. Struggling with confidence is a process, but anyone can build confidence with the right strategies and time. There are simple, effective ways to boost your confidence daily!
Wear Something that Feels Like You
Clothes impact how we feel during the day and are a great way to express our moods. Wear something that is a comfortable expression of your outlook for the day. Even wearing one special item, like a lucky claw clip or a special pair of earrings can give you a boost.
Hack: Plan your outfit the night before, so you don’t need to rush or stress in the morning. Choose something that shows your personality, whether it’s a bold color or a statement pair of shoes.
Set a Small Goal and Achieve It
One of the fastest ways to grow your confidence is to achieve a goal you set for yourself. It gives you that nice feeling of “I can do anything I set my mind to,” and you can! Start with simple goals such as getting your homework done for the day by a certain time, improving on a new dance move, or going to bed earlier. Achieving multiple small goals over time will give you the confidence to tackle bigger challenges.
Hack: Before you go to bed, write down one or two small goals to accomplish the next day. To make them extra achievable, you can even write down the necessary steps to make those goals happen.
Interact Positively with Yourself
What you say to yourself matters more than you might think. While talking negatively to yourself will just bring you down, positive self-talk lifts you up. Look in the mirror every morning, and say an encouraging statement. Some positive examples are “I am enough,” and “However today goes, I am proud of myself.” These phrases will change your mindset over time, even if you feel a little funny saying them at first.
Hack: Keep a pad of sticky notes in your bag that you can use to leave yourself positive notes. Put them in your locker, on your mirror, or at your desk, and anytime you start to talk negatively, look back at and repeat them.
Surround Yourself with Positivity
The people and things you surround yourself with change how you are. Create an environment that allows you to grow. Choose to surround yourself with people who uplift you and build your confidence.
Hack: If you are someone who is online a lot, then try following uplifting and inspiring creators on social media. And spend more time with the friends that make you feel good about yourself.
Listen to a Power Playlist
Music is a powerful tool, so make sure you are putting it to good use. Make or find a “power playlist” (essentially a curated list of songs that make you feel good and powerful). This could be anything from Justin Bieber to Lizzo! Play it while you are getting ready for the day, warming up for dance class, or sitting on the bus. Pick uplifting songs that set the tone for confident moments.
Hack: Ask some of your friends what their favorite confidence-building songs are. Then add them to your playlist! Don’t be afraid to share yours with people too. You’ll never know who could use it.
