8 Ways to Increase Your Confidence at Work

Think about the most successful people you know. Chances are, the common thread is confidence. Successful people believe in themselves and that confidence helps them to keep on succeeding and succeeding—which, in turn, makes them more confident! Feel left out of the confidence club? Don’t fear. But don’t do nothing either. You can and should induct yourself into the secret society of self-satisfaction. Here are 8 easy ways to do just that.

1. Know yourself

Take a good hard look at yourself, first and foremost. Confidence is usually earned, and confident people are just as aware of their shortcomings as they are of their strengths. Get to know your selling points and the areas where you might need work. Do a thorough self-assessment.

2. Don’t be a pushover

It’s important to say "no" from time to time. Practice saying "no," when prudent, and make sure to make your refusals clear. A simple “No, sorry” is worth a million “I’m just not sure…”s, and will make both you and the favor-asker feel less stressed and more secure.

3. Get in good with the boss

If you have a good relationship with your boss, great. If not, try to strategize how you might repair the relationship and start over on a better foot. Otherwise, the stress will be a huge drain on your energy and your self-esteem, both in the office and at home.

4. Set a bunch of smaller goals

Confident people are always winning, even in small increments. Challenge yourself constantly and, more often than not, you’ll succeed. Celebrate these small victories both because you deserve to and because you’ll get into the habit of succeeding. Before you know it, you’ll be used to winning too.

5. Get a mentor

A good mentor can help you advance in the course of your career, making small corrections to steer you straight. They’ll tell you where you’re coming up short, but they’ll also give you a pat on the back when you deserve it. And pats on the back build confidence!

6. Work out

Seriously. Exercise creates endorphins. It also makes you feel more capable emotionally, socially, and professionally. If you can work out regularly and push yourself, you’ll feel like you can translate those skills out of the gym and into your work.

7. Play dress up

People are judgmental. They do pay attention to how we present ourselves physically. Try dressing a bit smarter, but make sure to choose clothing that reflects you and your style. Be neat and tidy and make the extra effort. The compliments alone will boost your confidence.

8. Don’t be a jerk

It’s important to be assertive, but make sure not to overcompensate with aggression. This means keeping your insecurities in check. Once you learn this delicate balancing act, you’ll be well-equipped to wield your new confident self with ease.