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Written by: Kevin Gardner
Many people spend most of their waking hours at work. This is often because of demanding jobs or an intense dedication that leads them to taking on extra hours. If you want to succeed in your career, it can be difficult to spend so much of your time in a building where you don't feel comfortable or confident. If you're certain this isn't a problem rooted in company culture that needs changing, there are steps you can take to boost your confidence at work. Here's how to get started.
Take Care of Yourself
It can be difficult to think clearly and do your best work when you aren't taking care of yourself. Things like inadequate nutrition and poor sleep hygiene can have huge negative consequences that affect your work. Healthier habits can boost your mood, energy levels, focus, and more, so throw on your running half tights and hit the gym or local trail on your lunch break.
Dress Well
It can be hard to feel confident when you don't feel your best, but the things you wear can have a big impact on both you and also the people around you. Wear something comfortable so you're not pulling on it or fidgeting with it all day, and pick something that makes you feel good when you look in the mirror. This may mean experimenting with different cuts, shapes, colors and textures the next time you go shopping. This can feel like a drag if you don't like trying on clothes, but figuring out what works for you can make it easier the next time you need new clothes. Plus, when you feel good in your professional attire, you'll ooze confidence and appear capable to anyone who sees you.
Get Organized
Some confidence issues in the workplace can be caused by poor organization. This is nothing to be ashamed about. Everyone gets a little messy from time to time, but having tools in place to help you combat it can get you on track faster. The more organized you are, the better you're able to keep up with work tasks and keep your goals at the front of your mind. Spend some time experimenting to find the tools that work for you. There are plenty of helpful planners with different inserts and formats, but there are many apps and digital planners that can help you stay organized and connected across devices.
Practice Communication
If part of your confidence issues stem from the unknown, you may want to try communicating with your coworkers and supervisors more. When you now how they feel about you and your work, you can relax because there are no issues, or you can get specific feedback on what to fix. Even if it's not time for an evaluation, asking for feedback can help you improve and keep everyone around you happy with your contributions.
Find a Mentor
If you think you're lacking some of the skills or direction you need in your workplace, try finding a mentor. This can be someone at your place of work, or you can hire a professional to mentor you outside of your job.
Evaluate Your Skills Objectively
When you're struggling with confidence, it's important to understand what you do well and lean on those strengths. If you're good at delegating tasks, speak up more during team projects with your ideas. If you know your weaknesses, set goals, make a plan, and work on strengthening them.
Pursue Additional Learning Opportunities
If you don't feel like you're getting the experience and knowledge you need to do well and move up in your workplace, look into additional learning opportunities. Courses, lectures, and degree programs can help you feel more established as an expert in your field.
It's not uncommon to struggle with confidence in the workplace, but with some kind introspection and mindful goal setting, you can be on your way to a healthier, happier work mindset.
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