We all have moments when our confidence feels a little off. Whether it’s due to stress, tackling new challenges, or simply an “off” day, building confidence can sometimes seem harder than it should be. But here’s the good news: boosting your confidence doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it’s the small, everyday actions that create the most powerful changes. Here are five easy ways to help you feel more confident every day—small steps that, with practice, can truly transform how you feel about yourself.
1. The Way You Dress
The clothes we wear can have a powerful impact on how we feel. I’ve noticed this especially with my 8am university classes, where I feel a big difference depending on what I wear. When I pick out my outfit the night before or wake up early enough to choose something I love, I feel confident and focused for the rest of the day. But on rushed mornings, when I throw on something last-minute, I often feel uncomfortable or underdressed, which distracts me and even affects my concentration sometimes. So take a little time to wear something that makes you feel great, whether it’s business casual, street style, or anything that feels like you. Starting your day feeling confident in what you’re wearing can set a positive tone for the hours ahead.
2. Make Time for What Makes You Feel Good
Pampering yourself, even in small ways, is a mood and confidence booster. I’ve found that simply getting my eyebrows threaded or a fresh haircut/dye can make a huge difference when I’m feeling low. These little acts of self-care help me reconnect with myself, reminding me that I’m worth the effort. I remember a night during my first year at UBC when I was getting ready to go out with friends after dinner at Totem Park. I started crying because I didn’t feel pretty and really wanted to curl my hair, despite being on a time crunch. As much as I’ve learned that I don’t need curled hair to look good, even now, when I’m having a rough day, taking a moment to curl my hair helps me feel loads better. If you have something that makes you feel a little extra special, go for it. Investing in what makes you feel good—whether it’s doing your hair, painting your nails, or treating yourself to your favorite skincare routine—isn’t just self-care; it’s a reminder that you deserve to feel confident.
3. Give Yourself a Boost of Energy
Exercise doesn’t just benefit your physical health; it’s a powerful confidence booster, too. Finding a workout that you genuinely enjoy can energize you, boost your mood, and help you feel more connected to yourself. This doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym; it can be as simple as a morning walk, a yoga session, dancing, or any activity that makes you happy. Right now I have mostly just been focusing on getting in10K steps everyday. And honestly, when I reach the goal for the day, it makes me feel proud of myself for doing something good for me. The key is to find something you look forward to, rather than something that feels like an obligation. Regular movement that brings you joy can have a tremendous effect on your mental and physical confidence, giving you a sense of control and strength.
4. Talk to Yourself Positively
Our inner voice is incredibly powerful, and it can either lift us up or hold us back. Last year, I was struggling to land a summer internship, and as April approached without a job offer, my confidence took a hit. I kept wondering why I wasn’t capable of landing something and found myself in a cycle of self-doubt. Looking back, I think my negative attitude was actually working against me. One night in February, I decided to shift my mindset and told myself before bed, “I am smart, I am hardworking and I will be successful.” I started repeating this to myself every night in my head, and, within 15 days, I landed an internship. Maybe it was a coincidence, but I truly believe that these affirmations helped boost my confidence and played a part in my success. Remember, words of affirmation aren’t silly—they’re a way to remind yourself of how capable and amazing you really are.
5. Learn to Say No
Saying no can be challenging, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for your confidence. When you say no to things that don’t contribute to your happiness, you’re affirming that your time and energy are valuable. This applies to both activities and people. I feel like this past year has helped me truly understand who and what I enjoy spending my spare time with. Surround yourself with those who support and uplift you, and feel confident in setting boundaries when something or someone isn’t right for you. Saying no is a form of self-respect and is about knowing your limits. That said, don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone when the opportunity feels right. Growth happens when you push yourself, but only when it feels purposeful and positive.
Confidence is something you can build step by step, day by day. Whether it’s choosing an outfit that empowers you, investing in self-care, or setting healthy boundaries, these small habits can lead to lasting positive change. By no means is my confidence where I want it to be yet either, but I have been working on little things to help me get where I want to be. Start with these five simple practices and see how your confidence grows each day.
Many Hugs
-Vani Dogra :)
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