Remember, confidence is not a fixed trait that some people inherently possess, but it is a skill that can be developed through conscious effort. —Rachel Kennedy
If there’s one thing the last several years have shown me, it’s that people are becoming more confident…in many ways.
From showing and sharing intimate details of their lives on Instagram stories to publishing photos of oneself barely wearing clothing to starting successful businesses.
Are you seeing what I’m seeing as well?
When you think about it, no matter what subject we’re talking about, people are becoming bolder and their voices are getting louder.
What led to this boost of confidence?
To me the answer is two-fold: 1) people got tired of being told what to do/who to be/how to live and 2) the awareness that life is short.
When you combine both, a boost of confidence is inevitable. For me personally, with each passing day, my courage is growing. I can physically feel it. Deep down inside, the flames of my desire to be who God has called me to be is starting to grow and it’s become hotter.
Confidence does come from within. However, a part of me can’t help but feel that there are some tangible things that can help us add pep to our step.
Here are some things I’ve found that can help you boost your confidence:
Inner confidence can increase over time, but that doesn’t mean physical things can’t help us along.
That said, here are some things I believe you should invest in to help you grow your confidence:
FIVE MINUTE JOURNAL
For the past decade, I have used the Five Minute Journal to document my gratitude and jot down small to-do lists, and blessings that have happened to/for me.
I’ll be honest, while I haven’t always been consistent, I’ve realized that life isn’t the same when I’m not using this resource.
Looking back on some old FMJs, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come and how blessed I truly am. Now, aren’t these tangible journals worth something when it boosts your confidence in how far you’ve come? Yes. Yes, they are.
BOOK ABOUT MINDSET
If you’ve been around here awhile, you know that I’m a huge personal development person.
To me, a critical part of growing one’s confidence is to read and read a lot. Something that’s changed and challenged me lately is a book about mindset called, Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel. Yes, he’s a pastor. And if you’re not a spiritual person, set that aside and just read his book for the reflection and application process. You’ll be surprised at how practical this book is!
Reminder: even though you may not enjoy an entire book, always try to take away a nugget or two you can implement in your life right away. After all, small action steps help you beat fear another day!
WORKOUT GLOVES
While I have not worked out in the last six months, I will say that I miss it. A lot. Why? Because every time I finished a set or a gym session, I always felt good about myself. Am I tired and sore? Yes.
However, when I walk or hobble out of my gym (ha!), my confidence instantly goes through the roof. To know I completed something difficult? Yep, a sure-fire confidence booster!
My advice to you is to start moving your body. Whether you like lifting weights, running, doing pilates, or tennis, choose something you enjoy. It also doesn’t hurt to have some cute workout gloves!
RED NAIL POLISH IS THE COLOR OF CONFIDENCE
Even though I rarely wear red lipstick, I know how much it boosts my confidence when I do.
If you prefer neutral makeup like I do, the best alternative to red lipstick is red nail polish or a red manicure. There’s just something about wearing red polish that instantly makes me feel like a classy woman from the 1950s! It’s a major confidence booster in my book!
GOLD RINGS
When it comes to jewelry, gold will always elevate an outfit, even if it’s a pair of jeans and a tee.
If you’re not a big jewelry person or a statement jewelry person, go for dainty gold rings or stackable gold rings!
Can you imagine how you’d feel with a red manicure while wearing gold rings? ::sigh::
GOLD HOOP EARRINGS
While we’re on the topic of gold jewelry, aside from diamond and pearl studs, the top earring style you should have in your jewelry box is gold hoop earrings.
These gold hoop earrings from my friend’s shop, Cuffed by Nano, are so beautiful! I think they are the perfect size to dress up any outfit and they are affordable as well!
SIGNATURE FRAGRANCE
If there’s one thing people notice without you ever saying a word is the fragrance you’re wearing. Well, aside from the way you carry yourself and your smile, of course!
To me, when a man or woman wears an incredible scent, I can sense that their confidence level is high…or at least it gives the illusion of it! For me, it’s Chanel No. 5.
Find your signature scent by finding your favorite notes and trying out samples. I personally love the woody, amber, sandalwood, musk, and jasmine family notes versus fruity scents.
HAIR PRODUCTS THAT BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE
When I first got to know my friend, Rachel Kennedy, one of the first product recommendations she ever gave me was a hair mask. That’s when I knew she was a good friend to have in my life!
When my stylist recommended me this shampoo and conditioner for coarse hair, he did not steer me wrong either. Having beautiful hair really does boost one’s confidence. I know I’m not wrong. How do you feel every time you leave the hair salon? See what I mean?
A MINI HANDBAG
Hear me out. You do not need a tote or a big bag when it comes to carrying a handbag to boost your confidence.
I personally think luxury handbags are just that, a luxury. Can an expensive handbag help boost your confidence? Yes, absolutely…if you have money in the bank, have no doubt, are in good standing with your credit cards and investments, and can pay your bills.
However, an expensive handbag won’t boost your confidence if you put yourself into debt for it. And you know that all it will increase in your life is anxiety and stress.
If you’re going to spend any money, pick up this affordable (under $100!) and classic mini handbag. Take it out for a spin on a weekend and let me know what you think! For me, I think I’d instantly feel more feminine and that means, a boost in my confidence!
A NEUTRAL COMFORTABLE PAIR OF DRESSY SHOES
What makes an outfit? A pair of neutral shoes or a handbag? The answer is always shoes.
Stay with me for a minute. You can always go out in an outfit without a handbag, but never without shoes!
To me, it doesn’t matter if you prefer to be a bit taller or be closer to the ground, a pair of neutral shoes will always make an outfit every time! Imagine this: dark jeans, a white tee, and a pair of tan flats with gold hoop earrings. See?! You can be comfortable and confident!
A LITTLE BLACK DRESS THAT WILL BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE
Ah, the infamous little black dress! An LBD will always save you when you have “nothing to wear” to a fancy event.
Over the years, I have grown my black wardrobe because “black goes with everything!” For me, I feel more me when I wear a neutral such as black. From tops and trousers to jumpsuits to dresses, I know I will never go wrong with wearing black. I always feel good walking into a room when I wear a black dress.
I hope you enjoyed this article and can agree with me that some of my recommendations help you boost your confidence.
What’s your favorite item from this list that you know will boost your confidence?
If you want to shop for these items, just click on any item in the image below!