With all of the outside influences, pressures, and expectations that come with being both a woman and a mother, it can sometimes be hard to keep your self-confidence intact. Insecurities can stem from everything from perceived physical faults to struggles with motherhood. While feeling some insecurity some of the time is a natural part of life, maintaining a healthy sense of self-confidence is as important as getting your daily dose of fruits and veggies. Building confidence in yourself is often times easier said than done, which is why we have compiled this short list of some of our favorite confidence-boosting tips.
1. Don’t Compare Yourself To Others
Admittedly, we all suffer under the weight of our own criticisms from time to time. We see other women and mothers who we tend to perceive as being more well-adjusted, more beautiful, and happier than ourselves. Whether it’s your favorite mommy Instagrammer or members of your own family, it is important to remember not to compare yourself and your accomplishments to others. Remember that the people you admire are just as human as you, and their successes do not diminish the greatness of your own.
2. Lean On Your Support System
Don’t be afraid to take comfort in the support of those closest to you. One of the best things about having a great support system is how well they, sometimes unknowingly, are able to lift you up. Subtle things like offering up their help and being a supportive shoulder to cry on can make such an impactful difference on the state of your self-confidence. If you’re in need of a major confidence builder, try confiding in one of your loved ones about your concerns and watch your insecurities slowly melt away.
3. Compliment Yourself
Sometimes you have to be your own biggest fan. Whether that means literally standing in front of your mirror and pointing out all the physical things you find beautiful about yourself or taking pride in all of your great personality attributes. Whenever you’re feeling particularly down or even if you’re feeling great, giving yourself a few meaningful compliments can be a great confidence booster.
4. Take Some Time For Yourself
Moms have a tendency to think about ourselves last. With jobs, kids to take care of, and relationships to maintain, sometimes it can be pretty difficult to remember to take care of yourself. Go to the spa, spend a little too much money, experiencing the joy in going to see a movie by yourself. Do whatever you need to, to rediscover your sense of personhood. Even if the activities you choose to partake in are “silly” or “frivolous,” they are perfect as long as they make you happy.
5. Stop Striving For Perfection
There is no such thing as the perfect mom or the perfect woman. While it is definitely important to strive for being the best you can possibly be, it is also important to set realistic goals and expectations for yourself. The sooner you realize that you are just perfect the way you are, the closer you get to being able to fully appreciate yourself.