Rediscover your CONFIDENCE

You're not alone if you've found your sizzle is a little more fizzle. Here's how to give yourself a boost

Like running water, good friends and enough milk in the fridge, self-confidence is one of those things you take for granted – until it’s gone. At which point, it can quickly and negatively impact your lifestyle and health.

“We’re talking about self-esteem when talking about self-confidence,” says psychotherapist, and addiction and trauma specialist Diane Young. “This is knowing that we are enough, irrespective of whatever anyone else says or thinks of us.”

Maybe you’re experiencing isolation, increased domestic pressures or a big life change and you’ve noticed your appetite for moving outside your comfort zone has diminished. Or that you’re overthinking everything. These are all signs of confidence that has taken a hit.

“Our inner thoughts about ourselves deeply impact our physical and emotional well-being,” notes Diane. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to get your mojo back. And here’s why it's worth the effort: Confidence doesn't just make you feel all warm and fuzzy - it also allows you to take the risks necessary to make tangible improvements in your life. So, spread your wings again... or at the very least, flutter them a little.

FEEL & BELIEVE

Take this scenario: when you pass your driving test, you're only 30 minutes more experienced as a driver, but once you've got the nod and you've passed, you feel uplifted and more confident - you're no longer a learner and your status has changed. You hit the road a new person. How can such a small shift in experience and a qualification in itself have such a profound impact? It's about belief: someone else believes in you and that is something powerful. The driving examiner is backing your ability in the form of passing you.