Finding Confidence in the little things

How do we get confidence? Do we search for it? Is it already in our DNA, or is it a skill we develop through circumstances in life? Whichever way you have obtained your confidence, it shows up in our little everyday tasks. Confidence is the seasoning to life.

How does one search for Confidence?

Do they search for confidence on Google? Confidence is in the execution of the task.

Are you willing to be uncomfortable and nervous to deliver the task? Listening to motivational speakers, leaders, and others can give you the confidence to pursue your dreams. Helping to get your ideas out, talking with people in your inner circle, and getting a mentor to help guide you are all ways to boost your confidence.

My confidence was developed through circumstances. In my teens, I moved to Edmonton, Alberta, to live with my dad and his family. That didn’t change my confidence; it made it worse. The environment was different, people’s skin types were different, and I was afraid I would be the target of name-calling.

A woman on the LRT train in Edmonton, Alberta, started my level of confidence before my confidence was zero. I grew up with a single parent who worked hard to provide for my basic needs. Being bullied at school, because of the clothing I wore, and my skin color didn’t give me confidence. My low self-esteem was crying for help. The woman on the train stared at me and said, “You are beautiful and gorgeous.” When she said that, I was dumbfounded. I thought she was talking to someone else. She gaped at me again and repeated, “You are beautiful and gorgeous.”

What did she see that I didn’t? This woman of a different ethnicity is telling me that I am beautiful and gorgeous. I thought this was a prank. She smiled at me and got off at the next train stop. I went home and looked into the mirror to see what she saw. I started to repeat affirmations, and my confidence has grown over the years. I have learned it’s the story you tell yourself that changes everything, not letting people’s perception of you become your reality. My confidence was nurtured in the hardship, struggles, and bullying I endured and not giving up on the stories I tell myself.

Some people argue that some children are born with confidence, which is true. Children are naturally confident and fearless, but their confidence levels start to decline when negativity starts to shower them. Giving your children praise and rewards can help to build their confidence as they grow.