Low self-esteem is something that numerous people have struggled with at one point or another. Such negative perception of one’s self stems from a multitude of human experiences.
Unfortunately, this lack of confidence remains a constant hurdle for many individuals, and while the “fake it till you make it” mantra makes sense, it offers a temporary resolution and doesn’t necessarily deal with the cause of the problem.
As a personal development tool, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) provides corrective outlines to help people who desire to cultivate a healthier self-image of themselves.
Here are some practical suggestions to becoming confident and quelling those nagging voices of self-doubt.
Strengthen your mental muscles
The silent war against poor self-esteem takes place in the mind. This mental battlefield is akin to any other human muscle which needs to be trained to yield positive outcomes.
Taking that into account, one needs to dedicate time and effort to work on this muscle, using any type of activity – everything from physical exercise to reading or even meditating. Ensure that you carve out some time to invest in the development of your mind.
Do away with unneeded negative thoughts
As we’ve mentioned, not all negative thoughts are bad – some are useful tools that spur preparation and general critical thinking.
With NLP Training, you’re given the skills to be mindful of your thoughts, and discern them devoid of judgement. Furthermore, you’ll be able to sort through your feelings (the positive, negative and ambivalent), determine which are productive and use them to make better decisions.
You are what you wear
There is an intangible effect that dressing well has on one’s posture and mental state. It is a representation of who you currently are – and who you want to be in the future.
Try wearing your ‘Sunday Best’ especially on those days you’re not feeling a 100 percent and see the transformative effect it has on your overall morale and disposition.
Remember, adopting the mantra of “dressing for the job you want, not the one you currently have” successfully contributes towards the long term development of your confidence.
Beware of the “imposter syndrome”
The imposter syndrome is a psychological phenom where an individual feels wholly inadequate and worries that every good thing that has happened in their life is a result of chance and not hard work.
NLP training enables you to view your successes and accomplishments objectively and understand that you are indeed deserving of all of them.
Your self-identity isn’t rooted in just one thing
Many people, unfortunately, see themselves through only one perspective; they find value in just one aspect of their lives (their job or romantic relationship for instance).
NLP training encourages you to recognise and develop your value in who you are, not what you do. You’re also inspired to find other avenues to connect with yourself and grow.
