With the new year approaching, what better time is there to think about setting goals and working towards new objectives? Confidence can make such a positive difference to the way we live, yet so many of us have issues with self-esteem. In this guide are a few top tips to help you to feel more confident in your own skin in 2022!

Celebrate your own sense of style

Many of us are influenced by others when it comes to buying clothes or putting outfits together. While there’s nothing wrong with taking inspiration from your friends, the runway, or social media, it’s important to figure out and celebrate your own identity and sense of style. Fashion should be fun! When done in a way that is flattering to your figure and compliments who you are, putting clothes on should make you feel confident. Try clothes that you like the look of, rather than simply buying pieces because you’ve spotted them on a celebrity. Resist the pressure to conform to trends or wear clothing that isn’t ‘you.’ Choosing items that make you feel good will have a great and positive impact on your confidence. It’s also important to set your own trends and think outside the box – just because certain things are in fashion now, that doesn’t mean you need to conform to it. If you want to get some tattoos, why not? Or, if you want to mix and match some colors that you like, go ahead! Enjoy your individualism and use it to your advantage – you’ll be glad you did it!

Practice self-care

Self-care has been a buzzword, especially since the pandemic began. But, what does it actually mean? Self-care is all about figuring out the things you like to do to take good care of yourself and that fit your lifestyle, as well as being proactive in looking after your mind and body. For example, it’s important to ensure that you eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep (minimum 6-8 hours, but I like around 8.5 per night!) and exercise regularly. Even just 20 minutes a day can make a huge difference! With exercise, it’s imperative to find a movement that works for your lifestyle that you actually like. Not everyone has to go to the gym to workout. You could do yoga at home, dance, swim, or anything else! Just get your body moving!

Your diet plays an integral role in providing your body with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals. As well as well-known superfoods, you can also consider adding supplements and natural ingredients such as Purslane to your diet. This is often used as a substitute for spinach and watercress, but always consult with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your routine. It can help to use a food diary to monitor your daily diet and track your intake of protein, fiber, sugar, fats and key vitamins. You can also do things like meditate and tap into your spiritual side, read, spend time with loved ones, get therapy (whether it’s talk therapy, light or sound therapy, physical therapy, and any other kind you can think of!), or even playing with animals!

Stop comparing yourself to others

We live in a world where it’s almost impossible not to compare ourselves to others due to the influence of TV, magazines, movies, and social media. It is human nature to compare yourself to other people, but it can be dangerous if left unchecked. If you find that scrolling online has a negative impact on your mental health, take a break and think carefully about the accounts you follow and the content you consume. Understand that nobody is perfect and that social media is everyone’s highlight reel, not their raw, daily life. Focus on your strengths, be kind to yourself and use your time constructively. Take up a new hobby or devote more time to activities that make you feel great. Don’t forget to surround yourself with people who lift you up too! Positive relationships in life can make a huge difference on our outlook. 

Most of us experience confidence issues from time to time. If you lack confidence, it can be difficult to build up your self-esteem, but it definitely is possible! Starting with celebrating your unique sense of style, practicing self-care and doing less comparing between yourself and others can help tremendously. I hope this helps you on your confidence journey and I hope this new year brings abundance and joy to your lives!

xoxo, Arielle