How To Bottle Confidence

Re-reading some of our past Our Little Books Guest Post Wednesday posts, one stood out especially in light of the upcoming July 4th holiday weekend. Back during the new year holiday season, Molly Burke, the Queen of Confidence, posted about being confident throughout the holidays- a time where people typically can stumble. What is interesting is that her reasoning can be applied to any holiday or actually any time of the year because everyone has some time when they struggle with confidence. We suggest that you enjoy this post again, and take her words to heart, no matter what time of year.

'Tis the season, right? Yet for some, tidings of comfort and joy are hard to come by. They suffer from Seasonal Confidence Malaise. This internal affliction prevents otherwise happy people from fully enjoying this season. So, how do you cope with the internal and external pressures that can all too easily transform this season into one fraught with tension and trepidation? What can you do beat Seasonal Confidence Malaise (SCM)? 

Here are three easy ways to create a greater sense of self confidence as you breeze through the holidays.

1. Don’t go it alone.
2. It’s okay to say, “No”.
3. Volunteer.

Let’s take these one at a time and make them workable, shall we?

1. Don’t go it alone.

Seems kinda obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. There is a great deal to be said for the borrowed and/or bolstered confidence that comes from surrounding yourself with folks who like you. Take a “Holiday Wingman” to the parties and gatherings you’re invited to. That way you’ve always got someone to talk to, laugh with, and feel at ease with.

2. It’s okay to say, “No”.

So many of us overextend ourselves at the holidays, running ourselves ragged trying to get the perfect gifts and be the perfect host/guest. Give yourself a break. Say “No” to that umpteenth party invitation, and focus instead on what matters. Give the people in your life a chance to express their affection, and express your appreciation in return. Make yourself available for that level of meaningful interaction, and gently eschew shallow gatherings that do not touch your heart. Genuine appreciation is a profound gift to give and to receive, even as you express your regrets in not attending yet another holiday bash. This holiday season, choose heartfelt sentiments over making appearances, and make your gifts the ones that express your appreciation.

3. Volunteer.

There’s nothing so moving, humbling or perspective shifting than volunteering. If you want to feel truly confident, give to others from your wellspring of time and energy. Experience the gratitude that being reminded of all your blessings provides as you serve those less fortunate. Become re-inspired by the noble, humble humanity of the people and organizations you serve. There nothing that can increase one’s self confidence so fast as giving of yourself. 

Well, there you have it. Three great ways to increase your overall feelings of self confidence as you deepen the meaningfulness of the season for yourself. Give yourself the gift of ease, grace, and give others the gifts of your honest, heartfelt confident self. Good work. Happy Holidays! 

What do you do to boost your confidence, whether during the holidays or at any other time?

Molly Burke is the Queen of Confidence. Find out more about her on her website www.lifepurposeworks.com and remember her famous words:  "I've bottled confidence and you can, too!"