Annie's Chronicles

Secret to boost your confidence

Hey YOU!! Let’s dive headfirst into the enigmatic world of self-confidence and take imposter syndrome for a wild ride. I’m about to unveil some confidence-boosting gems that’ll leave your inner imposter no choice but to retreat into the shadows!”

1. Embrace Your Inner Superstar:

I once had to give a presentation to a room full of experts in my field. My heart raced, my palms sweated, and my inner critic was partying like it no other. But right before I stepped on that stage, I channelled my inner Taylor Swift, complete with an invisible guitar and all. It was like my own personal superstar moment. I am presented this moment to give this presentation because although I doubted myself someone believed in me and knew that I am capable! It’s my stage to shine. Who knew a little imagination could be the antidote to imposter syndrome?

2. Talk to yourself (positively, of course!):

We’ve all had those moments when self-doubt sneaks in like an uninvited guest. I remember once I was tackling a project, and my inner critic decided to throw a surprise party in my head. But I turned the tables with some positive self-talk. I went from “Can I really do this?” to “Of course you can! You’ve got this!”. Often times it’s not that easy but over the years with tons of practice I feel myself getting better at this. It’s like having your own personal pep talk on speed dial.

3. Accept your inner clown.

I used to worry endlessly about my quirks. One day, it hit me—these quirks are what make me charmingly unique! They make me unique, relatable, and human. So, instead of hiding your quirks, flaunt them! They’re your badges of honour, proof that you’ve taken risks and embraced challenges. So, instead of trying to hide them, I embrace them like trophies. My occasional clumsiness? That’s just my way of keeping life interesting.

4. Learn to Say “Yes” (to Yourself):

I used to be a professional “no” to new opportunities. Fear of the unknown had me in a tight grip. But one day, I decided to channel my inner Jim Carrey and say “yes” to everything (within reason, of course). And you know what? It led me down some exciting paths, even if it did get me into the occasional weird and quirky adventure.

5. Fake It Till You Make It (But Not Forever):

Ever feel like you’re playing dress-up in the adult world? I have! In my early career, I’d often attend interviews and meetings feeling like a pint-sized imposter. I am still pint sized given my height of 5’2 never changed but I do not feel like an imposter. I embraced the “fake it till you make it” mantra. I wore confidence like a costume, and you know what happened? One day, that costume turned into my everyday attire.

6. Seek Out Your Personal Cheer Squad:

We all need a squad that believes in us. Mine? They’re a bunch of friends who cheer me on even when I’m doubting myself. Surrounding yourself with people who see your awesomeness, even when you can’t, is like having your own personal fan club.

7. Celebrate Every Win (Big or Small):

From conquering a major project to simply getting through a Monday morning without making my dress into a coffee canvas. I’ve learned to celebrate every victory, no matter how minuscule. Trust me, it’s like a daily dose of confidence sprinkles. And it doesn’t have to be a lavish five-star restaurant meal every Monday; it can be as simple as drawing yourself a luxurious bath and indulging in a rejuvenating face mask.

8. Don’t Compare—You’re a Limited Edition:

I used to be a pro at the comparison game, thinking I wasn’t as impressive as my peers. But one day, I had an epiphany: I’m a limited edition, like a rare Pokémon card. Comparing myself to others is like comparing apples to orangutang.

9. Embrace setbacks as stepping stones:

Setbacks? Oh, I’ve had my fair share, like the unforgettable moment when I forgot my manager’s name during a high-stakes meeting (awkward, right?). I decided to see them as stepping stones to success. Each mishap was like a comedy skit in the grand sitcom of my life.

10. Always keep this in the spotlight:

You are the shining star of your confidence show. I’ve danced through doubt’s hard and tough choreography, and so can you. Take the stage with flair, twirl through the gusts of insecurity, and pirouette towards the shores of self-assured triumph. The world is your standing ovation, and you’ve earned every applause!

So, there you have it! It’s time to kick imposter syndrome to the curb and let your inner confidence shine. Go out there, conquer your world, and remember, you’ve got the charm, and confidence to make it happen!

Photo by Alexander Suhorucov