Looking to Step Back into the World with self-confidence?
Here’s What You Can Do To
Many professionals are struggling with their confidence post-COVID 19. So, the past few years have been challenging, and many people are having difficulties regaining their footing as workplaces reopen and safety-oriented mandates are lifted.
Fortunately, it’s possible to improve your self-confidence in these situations. You can take steps like cutting out negative talk, stopping the comparison game, and celebrating your wins. So, today we shares some other time-tested ways to get started.
Confidence to Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care can be a surprisingly important part of the equation. Often, it creates opportunities for relaxation or joy, both of which may make you feel more confident.
One excellent way to begin is with exercise. Overall, 42 percent of adults experienced undesirable weight gain during the pandemic, according to the American Psychological Association. If you’re among them, that may harm your confidence. That’s why getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity and two days of strength training should be part of your self-care plan.
Also, focus on eating right. Proper nutrition ensures your body has what it needs to thrive, making it a foundation for improved physical and mental health. Live Simply Eat Well has great suggestions for healthy eating that can help you to make this transition.
Finally, sprinkle activities you enjoy into your schedule. Commit to participating in a fun hobby regularly, or make sure you have time for relaxing options like meditation. Make sure that your space is decluttered, too, as excess stuff can increase anxiety and make your self-care practices less effective. CleanerDigs.com has great suggestions for how to organize and disinfect your home so that you can breathe more easily. That way, you’re caring for your whole self.
Confidence to Tackle Your Finances
Financial stresses can also impact your personal and professional lives, leaving you distracted and less productive. If your financial life is harming your self-confidence, spend time getting it in order.
Start by looking at your spending. Find ways to reduce the impact of your biggest budget line items. For example, commit to cooking at home instead of dining out. Get new insurance quotes to secure a lower rate. Watch your utility usage and find ways to reduce power and water consumption.
Also, consider refinancing your home. This process means that you pay off your current home loan with a new one that has lower interest rates. Refinancing could reduce your payments or allow you to tap into equity to free up some cash. In either case, you could get more room in your budget.
Talk to Your Employer
In the post-pandemic landscape, TechSpot notes that 76 percent of employees don’t want to return to offices full-time. While their reasoning may vary, if you’re concerned about health and safety, talking to your employer is an excellent idea.
By speaking with your manager, you can outline why you’re hesitant to come back and work together to find solutions. For instance, they may review new wellness and safety policies that’ll put your mind at ease, allowing you to head back to the workplace with confidence. In some cases, they may be able to continue with remote work arrangements, either full- or part-time.
However, you won’t know what’s possible if you don’t ask. So, schedule an appointment with your manager and have an honest conversation about your concerns. That way, you can find an answer together.
Make a Career Change
If job dissatisfaction is harming your self-confidence, a career change might be just what you need to start fresh. While confidently navigating a career change is tricky, it is often worth doing. It lets you align your work with your passions, achieve a better work-life balance, improve your financial situation, and otherwise put you in a better position.
Consider what type of work would leave you invigorated. Next, research job listings to learn more about the required skills. Then, do some salary research to ensure it’ll meet your needs. Once that’s done, iHire suggests identifying your transferable skills and plan to acquire capabilities you don’t currently possess.
You could also explore starting a new company. It puts you in the driver’s seat, ensuring your professional life can meet all of your needs. Just make sure to create a business plan as a starting point. That gives you a roadmap for success. In a business plan, you’ll:
- Describe your company
- Detail how you’ll sell your goods or services
- Define your business structure
- Outline potential funding sources
- Discuss financial projections
Essentially, a business plan lets you get your ducks in a row. Then, when it’s time to register your business, you’ll have a strong foundation.
So Get the Confidence You Need,
Getting back to normal after a large change can be difficult. But you’ll soon find that, by following some or all of these tips, you’ll be out in the world (in the “new normal”) with a new air of confidence. Remember to practise self-care, be open with your employer about your needs and desires, and even consider starting your own business.
Maria Duckhouse is an experienced life coach who can help you get back on track. If you have any questions, feel free to email enquiries@mariaduckhouse.com.
Cody McBride – Creator of TechDeck.info
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