Self-Confidence: 6 Surprising Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem and Confidence

Everyone wants to have high self-confidence and a strong sense of self-worth. Confidence leads to success in many areas of life- socially, professionally, and more. Self-confidence doesn’t mean arrogance or feeling superior to others, but recognizing your own value because you are a person, a Jew, a child of the King, and because of the unique talents G-d gave you.

Many people doubt their worth and aren't sure of their abilities. Following are six effective tips to help you boost your self-esteem and confidence.

1. It’s Not Failure – It’s a Challenge

Most of us doubt ourselves because of a past experience where we failed, and we begin to fear failure again or see ourselves as inherently unsuccessful. Try changing your perspective by understanding that everyone fails sometimes. Instead of referring to it as a failure, see it as a delay, a challenge, or an opportunity to learn or grow. When you stop saying “I failed” and start saying “this is a challenge,” you’ll reduce your stress and shift your mindset toward solutions instead of self-criticism.

2. Listen to Yourself

Make time to check in with yourself and listen to your thoughts and feelings. You may discover some deep-seated beliefs- some empowering, and others limiting. There’s always more than one way to interpret a situation. When you catch yourself believing something negative about yourself, try reframing it and viewing yourself in a more compassionate, positive light.

3. Surround Yourself with the Right People

It doesn’t take long to recognize who in your life lifts you up and who brings you down. Don’t listen to those who belittle or dismiss you, and physically and mentally distance yourself from people who weaken your confidence. Seek out supportive relationships with those who believe in you and your abilities.

4. Help Others

Be the supportive environment for someone else. Help those in need, offer kind words, and provide positive feedback whenever possible. When you can recognize and affirm someone else’s strengths, it reminds you of your own inner strength and value.

5. Remember: You Know Something Others Don’t

This isn't about bragging, but about recognizing the truth that every person has unique strengths. You know things that others don’t.

When you're in unfamiliar situations, you seek help from others, and the same is true in reverse- others can turn to you for help in areas where you excel. Don’t assume that everything you know is obvious to everyone. During difficult moments, remind yourself that you have knowledge and skills that are truly valuable.

6. Allow Yourself to Doubt- Sometimes

This may sound surprising, but to grow, we also need a little self-doubt. Doubt helps us reflect and improve: Am I doing this the best way? Is there be a better path forward?

We’re only human and it’s natural to feel uncertain sometimes. The key is to acknowledge the doubt without letting it control you, and then return to your confidence to move forward.