It’s no secret that being confident is attractive. But for many men, feeling confident seems like an impossible task. It can feel like you’re up against insurmountable odds — like you have to be born with a certain level of confidence, or it’s just not possible.
But the truth is, gaining confidence doesn’t have to be difficult or unrealistic. In fact, there are many practical and realistic things you can do to look good and feel more confident as a man. Here are four tips for gaining more confidence as a man:
Practice Positive Self-Talk
The way you view yourself greatly impacts your level of confidence. So start by practicing some positive self-talk. Every day, tell yourself something good about yourself that makes you feel proud and confident. It could be something as simple as, “I’m a great listener” or “I always give 100%.”
It can feel awkward and challenging at the start, but it’s simply because you’re not yet used to viewing yourself in a positive light. Keep at it, and eventually, it will become second nature. Reframing your self-perception is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. Learning to love and appreciate yourself is the foundation of having true confidence.
Make a List of Your Accomplishments
Continuing from the previous point, one way to improve your self-perception is by remembering and celebrating your accomplishments. Make a list of all the things you’re proud of, no matter how big or small. For example, maybe you started a successful business, ran a marathon, or overcame a difficult challenge in your life. Whatever it is, remind yourself that you’re capable and competent — you’ve achieved great things, and you can do it again.
Remember to validate your own accomplishments, even if others don’t see them as a big deal. You know what you’ve been through and what it took to achieve what you have, so give yourself the credit you deserve. You can do this by keeping a journal — either a paper journal or a digital one, and writing positive entries about your accomplishments regularly.
Exercise Regularly
For men, working out and staying in shape is not only about looking good — it’s also about feeling good. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting and anxiety-reducing effects. These benefits can lead to improved confidence, both in how you look and how you feel.
So make sure to include regular exercise in your routine. Starting going to the gym is a habit you should form to gain more confidence. If the gym isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other options. You can go for a run outside, join a sports team, or take up a new physical activity that you’re interested in, like dance, parkour, or rock climbing.
Dress Well and Work on Your Smile
Part of having confidence is feeling good about yourself and how you look. The most straightforward way to do this is to assess your current wardrobe and see which clothes make you feel and look good. The fit, texture, and color of your clothes can make a huge difference in how they affect your looks. If your suit is too big, you will end up looking like you’re swimming in it. If your shirt is too small, it will be uncomfortable and look like you’re bursting out of it.
Another important aspect of your appearance is your skin and face. Get used to looking in front of the mirror, practicing your smile, and ensuring your hair is well-groomed. A great smile and a clean, well-styled haircut will go a long way in making you look more confident. Make sure you regularly visit your dentist and get your teeth cleaned so that your smile is as bright as it can be.
Build Relationships With Supportive People
The people you surround yourself with can significantly impact your confidence. If you’re constantly around negative, judgmental, or belittling people, it’s going to be hard to feel good about yourself. On the other hand, being around supportive and positive people will make it easier for you to feel confident.
To truly become the better version of yourself, you have to associate with people who will help you get there. So, take some time to assess your current relationships and see which ones are healthy, supportive, and toxic. If you have any toxic relationships in your life, it’s time to let them go.
Confidence in men is not about being cocky or self-absorbed. It’s about feeling good about yourself, your abilities, and your accomplishments. It’s about setting goals and working hard to achieve them. And it’s about surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people who will help you reach your full potential. It takes time and conscious effort, but consistency and discipline can surely help you build the confidence you need to be the best version of yourself.
