Y’all know how it goes, don’t ya? You’re born with a sparkle in your eye and a smile on that face of yours, feeling like nothing can get you down. Then, as the days turn into weeks, months, years, suddenly life starts to knock off some of that shine.
But remember this – that confidence, that swagger? It ain’t gone for good! Just like how grandma taught us to rejuvenate her favorite rocking chair on a Sunday evening with fresh polish, we need to work on polishing our own self-confidence too.
In my 65 years of life, I’ve seen folks struggle with it; some never seeming to quite catch that train bound for Beliefville. So sit back, put up your feet on the proverbial porch swing and let ol’ Bojangles guide you through a beginner’s journey towards confidence.
The Power of Positive Self-Talk (Like Your Mama Used to Say)
First things first: it’s all about what you say to yourself, sweetheart! We often find ourselves talking down or criticizing our actions and abilities more than anyone else does. Stop that nonsense right there!
Remember to talk kindly to yourself, like you would your best friend. Imagine them struggling with something; wouldn’t you encourage and comfort them? Do the same for yourself. Each small win deserves a ‘Well Done’ from you, not a silent nod or worse, harsh self-criticism!
Embrace Failure As Your Friend
Now, now, I know what you’re thinking. “Failure? A friend? Don’t be ridonkulous!” But listen, partner. Every time you fall (and oh how we will), use it as a stepping stone instead of letting it become an anchor. It is part of our journey to becoming the best version of ourselves.
Don’t view it negatively, but rather as learning experiences – life’s little way of whispering lessons in our ear. In my line of work, running a small business wasn’t all roses and sunshine; I learned more from my ‘fails’ than my ‘successes’.
Own Your Strengths & Work on Improving Weaknesses
We each come equipped with unique abilities and strengths. Cherish those, acknowledge them! Be proud of who you are and what you can do, whether it’s cooking up a storm or crafting an immaculate garden bed. At the same time, recognize where you could use some work without dwelling excessively on shortcomings. Improvement requires action, not constant comparison.
Step Outta Your Comfort Zone (And Find Some New Shoes)
Just like changing footwear every once in a while keeps things interesting, pushing beyond what we consider ‘comfortable’ can be invigorating. Each step outside your bubble might feel a tad scary at first, but trust me, it gets easier with time, kind of like breaking in those stiff cowboy boots.
Fake It Till You Make It (A Lesson from My Father)
There’s power in presentation! Stand tall, make eye contact, give a firm handshake – even if you feel anything but confident internally. Doing this repeatedly helps trick your brain into believing the new reality you’re presenting. Remember that job interview you had years ago that got you where you are? Felt like a deer in headlights but with practiced posture and smiles, you nailed it! (or you will next time, pardner!)
Well youngins, them were my thoughts on building confidence from scratch. Just as life throws us curveballs, it offers us ways to grow and build strength. And always remember, no matter how tough things get, if I can learn to dance this ol’ hip ain’t half bad, so you sure can find your inner swagger too!