How to radiate confidence

If you’re lacking self-assurance, Dr Riaz suggests we ‘play the part of the winner, regardless of how we feel inside’. Our body language, speech and even our clothes can all radiate confidence – or the opposite. Plus, there’s scientific backing behind ‘faking it till you make it’. It’s possible to feel better by simply pretending you’re not shaking inside. It works because when you’re doing the things a confident person would do, you gain skills and your confidence grows.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Know your worth, and wear clothes that make you feel fantastic. And, yes, put on that bright red lipstick and have your nails done, too. ‘When I get my hair blow-dried I feel a hundred times more gorgeous and confident than when I don’t,’ says Margie.

‘It’s easy to say that it won’t make a difference, but when you spend time making sure you look great, it really does shift how you feel.’

TRY NOT TO OVER-APOLOGISE

Or talk yourself down. Often when someone gives us a compliment we’ll say, ‘Oh, I just got lucky.’ But this can shrink our self-worth. Try preparing for stressful conversations by prepping in front of a mirror. Rehearsing will help you control the power dynamic and hold your own if you feel uncomfortable. ‘The idea is that you see yourself in action and you’re aware of how your posture and facial expressions change as you speak,’ says Dr Riaz.

STAND TALL

Confidence is often displayed non-verbally through height and space, so keep your posture straight, your shoulders back and your head held high. Also, it’s proven that when women adopt more ‘classically male’ postures – such as taking up more space, our testosterone levels rise along with our confidence levels.