Is it possible to be immensely talented, yet be insecure about oneself? As unlikely as it might seem, human history is rife with instances of men and women, who though talented, have failed to make it big in life. While some managed to rise above their insecurities, many never did. Even as human history paints them as lost talents, know that they were people who had the talent, but no confidence to make it big in life. On the other hand, history also provides us with countless examples of men and women who went on to become successful without any seemingly outstanding abilities. Perplexing as both these phenomena are, it does not take much brain racking to know the real reason behind these contrasting fortunes. If anything, it was the successful people’s belief in themselves, which propelled their fortune to great heights. This goes on to show how important self-confidence is in one’s life. To know more on how to build self-confidence, trail the write-up.

Building Self-Confidence
Self-confidence cannot be built overnight. However, if understood and followed diligently, these measures have the ability to change the way you look at yourself.

Nobody Is Born Confident
The first step to gain confidence is to accept this fact. While some people are born in conditions that help nurture their confidence from a young age, there are many who never get a chance to come out of their shell, thanks to peer pressure and unrealistic expectations. This has fueled the popular myth that people are born confident, especially if you have confident parents. This is not only ludicrous, but also unscientific. Agreed, having confident progenitors help nurture confidence, but nothing more. Remember, you are the maker of your own destiny. With a little mental strengthening, even you can shine and exude confidence through all your pores.

Nobody Is Perfect
The sooner you realize this, the better it is. Understand that people who project confidence are also plagued by certain insecurities. It is just that they are better able to deal with their insecurities than you are. It’s natural to have hang-ups, but that shouldn’t deter you from living your life up to your potential.

Understand Yourself
Bob Marley once said, “Who are you to judge the life I live? I am not perfect and I don’t have to be! Before you start pointing fingers, make sure your hands are clean.” Even though others can help you recognize your shortcomings, they can only help so much. Only you are aware of your greatest fears and insecurities. Don’t let others criticize you for nothing. Make a note of what your shortcomings are, because they are the pillars upon which you shall build your confidence.

Seek Help And Advice
This does not mean professional help, though if you are comfortable enough, it could be a great option. As much as we try to understand ourselves, it is important that we gloss over some of our not-so-glaring shortcomings. At times, you might pass your shortcomings as natural and not worthy of attention. Having someone to talk about your inadequacies can rectify this problem largely.

Recognize Your Strengths
It is impossible for a person to be bad at everything he or she does. It is important that you identify your endowments. This could be something as simple yet noble like helping others. Look at these areas as feel-good sources and take adequate pride in them. Nurture these strong points by indulging in them every now and then. If you simply cannot think of any talent that you possess, just work on things that you love to do and follow them diligently. Not only will this help you in maintaining a level of confidence, you might actually become quite good at it.

Convince Yourself To Stay Positive
Things aren’t always the way you want them to be. It is easy to panic and raise an alarm, but it takes courage to stand and face the situation with calmness and assurance. Avoid wallowing in self-pity and other negative thoughts. Not only are you belittling yourself in the eyes of others, it also prevents you from expressing your capabilities during the worst of times. Staying positive will also encourage others to have confidence in you, which will surely contribute to the general feeling of confidence.

Acknowledge Compliments
Nothing boosts your confidence as much as a good word of appreciation. Once you are recognized for your work, it is only natural that others will compliment you for it. However, the manner in which you acknowledge appreciation is also important. Accepting compliments gracefully will stamp in the feeling of confidence as compared to simply brushing it away.

Nothing Like Helping
What can make you feel good about yourself more than helping others? Helping others not only improves your emotional well-being, but will also creates a very favorable impression of you among others. However, make sure that you mean what you do. Feel the emotions flow in you while you help others.

Act According To Your Conscience
If there is something for which you will never need any attestation of others, it is acting according to your conscience. Stick to the principles that you have laid for yourself. Doing this will not only wipe off any regrets, it will also help cultivate that confidence within you that you have lived according to how you deem it best to live.

Finally, Just Act Confident
Wing it? Yeah, that is the idea. If there are times you are feeling anything but confident, just convince yourself that you are confident enough to be able to deal with it. Acting confident can convey a positive message to others around you and increase your own confidence.