Confidence Hacks

Confident people can seem innately outgoing, self-assured and assertive. But that's not always the case.

Confidence can be developed through practice. Here are eight tricks that will leave you feeling like a total boss!

1. Banish Imposter Syndrome

Many of us feel like frauds from time to time, scared that we will be "found out." Overcome this by improving your self-awareness. Understand where your strengths lie and take comfort in the fact that you are not alone.

2. Stop Being a Perfectionist

Sometimes "good enough" is exactly that. Don't allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good. Learn when it's time to let go and move on to the next task.

3. Play to Your Strengths

Share your talents and your confidence will flourish. If, for example, you have good organizational skills, why not volunteer to arrange the next office party?

4. Reflect on Your Successes

Take stock of your achievements and keep a note of them. It can be all too easy to forget past successes when the chips are down, so having them in writing somewhere will provide encouragement when you need it.

5. Do Something Scary

Stepping out of your comfort zone can often reveal skills you never knew you had. The more often you do this the easier it will get, and the more confident you will become.

6. Practice Deep Breathing

Simple as it may sound, taking a few deep breaths when you're under pressure will help slow the stress response and relax you.

7. Put Things Into Perspective

If a situation starts to feel overwhelming, take a minute to put it into context. Try to be grateful for what you have, and focus on practical steps you can take to move on with courage and conviction. Looking back on a stressful event with the benefit of hindsight can help you understand your emotions and deal with similar situations more effectively in the future.

8. Pretend!

Last but not least, the old "fake it 'til you make it" technique. Even if you don't feel confident on the inside, projecting an air of confidence will inspire others to trust in your abilities. Try adopting a power stance for two minutes and feel the confidence radiate.

Remember these tricks and you'll be swaggering around town in no time.

If you want to find out how confident you are, take our quiz, How Self-Confident Are You?