Dear Alex: How do I become more confident? I am insecure about myself a lot.

– Insecure

Dear Insecure: There are so many things you can do to become more confident in yourself. I have trouble feeling confident about myself, and I know others feel the same way. We need to take the proper steps to build our self-confidence. Here are some ways that I found to be the most effective for me:

Adjust Your Posture. I find so many people these days hunched over when sitting at a desk, or even walking. I do it too, but when I find myself hunched over I remind myself to sit up. It can make you feel better, more alert, and focused throughout the day.

Wear something that makes you feel good about yourself. If you have clothes that make you feel amazing, go ahead and wear them. Buy or try on more clothes that resemble that style and don’t think about what others say or think about it. If it makes you feel good, wear it.

Repeat positive affirmations. Try telling yourself things you like about yourself. Eyes? Hair? Sense of Humor? Sarcasm? Tell yourself that often. Try to avoid talking negatively about yourself. I found that if you start talking about yourself negatively, you start believing it. If you feel insecure about yourself, that’s the last thing you need. Tell yourself positive things. Reflect on good moments. It boosts your self-confidence.

I hope you have luck building your self-confidence; I know I should listen to my own advice. Your biggest critic is yourself, so don’t let yourself down.

– Alex