College can be an exciting yet challenging time in your life. While it’s a period of personal growth and learning, it can also be accompanied by moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. However, building and maintaining confidence is essential for your success and well-being, but at the same time, it can feel impossible to even feel this confidence. There are so many articles and even social media posts online about people graduating early, having zero debt, finding their dream job, getting scholarships, getting extra money, perfect test scores, and the list itself can keep going on and on.
There’s pressure, and there’s the whole comparisons thing because of how much is in the media. While it sounds impossible to get confidence, you need it; you absolutely need this in order to thrive. So, here’s what you can do to feel more confident!
You Need to Embrace Yourself
Confidence starts with self-acceptance. Embrace your strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. Understand that nobody is perfect, and it’s okay to have flaws. By accepting yourself for who you are, you can begin to build a more solid foundation for self-confidence. You don’t have to be perfect; don’t think that you need to be on the 20 Under 20 List or 30 Under 30, or anything ridiculous like that. You’re a student; you’re doing the best that you can in these conditions; embrace what you’re currently able to do!
Your Goals Need to Be Achievable
If you put unrealistic expectations on yourself, then you can basically count on having next to no confidence. Seriously, you’re only human, and you really shouldn’t be putting enormous expectations on yourself. When you can, create goals that are small, small ones that you know for a fact you can do. Just keep making small, obtainable ones, and then slowly work your way up. There’s always this nice boost when you focus on what you know is actually obtainable.
Cultivate a Growth Mindset
Adopting a growth mindset means seeing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as failures. Embrace challenges and setbacks as chances to learn and improve, which can significantly boost your self-assurance. You might want to consider things that will get you outside of your comfort zone, like the Beyond Academy for an internship. Just focus on growth and not staying where you’re comfortable. All professionals know that growth starts with getting out of what’s familiar, so get to it!
Challenge Negative Self-Talk
You’re your own worst enemy; it’s basically like that for everyone, so don’t feel too bad about it. Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Replace self-critical thoughts with more positive and constructive affirmations. Be your own cheerleader and remind yourself of your accomplishments and strengths. Seriously, you can’t expect to feel the best about yourself if all you do is think low about yourself. You need to be your best friend and boost yourself!
In the end, confidence takes time to grow- for everyone. It’s a journey that basically has a lot of obstacles, but in the end, you need it. Those who are confident are able to achieve what they want. While it might sound cheesy, believing in yourself is key, even as a student.
