building confidence

I lost my job this week and ever since it happened I’ve been feeling really down and not like myself. How can I build my confidence back up? Thank you
Asked by Smit
Answered
05/28/2022

Self-confidence can diminish if you have set backs like recently losing your job which can also create grief and loss.  Set yourself confidence targets that require you to step out of your comfort zone and do things that make you feel a degree of uncomfortableness.  Potential confidence targets may include the following:

Start a task or project that you have been putting off for a long time.  Often we put off starting important tasks because they seem overwhelming, difficult or awkward to complete. Simply making a start on such a task can boost confidence and make you more likely to complete it due to getting momentum activated.

Stand up and ask a question at a public meeting or in a group, just like you did with submitting a question to BetterHelp!  By doing this you are making yourself the center of attention for a few minutes that you are worthy of which can increase confidence.

Volunteer to give a presentation or make a speech, like reading at a religious service in front of the congregation. For many people speaking to a group of people is an intimidating prospect. The best way to overcome this fear and gain confidence is with experience.

Introduce yourself to somebody new. This could be somewhere that you have activities in common with people, like the gym or grocery store, making it easier to start a conversation.  Or you could talk to someone on an elevator.

Wear something that will draw attention.  Personal appearance is an important factor in self esteem and people tend to try not to be noticed.  Make a statement and stand out in a crowd.

Join a group or class in your community.  You may benefit by meeting new people and learning new things while improving your confidence, such as a cooking class or paint night.

Travel to somewhere new.  By using an unfamiliar route, confidence can improve by reaching your destination.

How do you feel about each of the ideas on the list above?  If none of the ideas are appealing, think of some confidence targets that are right for you then start with easier ones and build up to more difficult, such as going on job interviews to get a new job.