Feeling Good About Yourself

Does this sound like you?

• I am eager to learn new things.
• I take pride in doing a good job and being a nice person.
• I can handle criticism without being too emotional.
• I know what things I am good at, and those that I'm not.
• It is okay if I win or if I lose.
• Before I do something, I usually think, "I can do it."
• I like to try to do things without help, but I don't mind asking for help if I really need it.
• I like myself.

If so, congratulations, you have healthy self-confidence!

Confidence is developed as you try new things and remove doubt in your abilities. To boost your self-confidence, try these steps:

• Think positive thoughts about yourself! Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses. Realize that you are better at some things than others.
• Set realistic goals. This means setting goals at a level you know you can reach. Then, you can always strive to do better than your goal.
• Give yourself credit. Praise yourself when you’ve reached a goal or done well.
• Learn to be assertive. Express your thoughts, opinions, needs, and feelings openly—but not at the expense of others’.
• Practice positive body language. Walk tall; don't slump. When your body says, "I can," everyone will believe you can.