Importance of building confidence in student life

Confidence is a state of mind. It is not something that can be mastered with a few book rules. Positive thinking, practice, training, knowledge, talking to others helps in improving confidence levels. A good sense of wellbeing, acceptance of your mind and body (self-esteem) belief in your own ability, skills and experience ensures good confidence. An attribute most people want to possess.

Shashvit of Class I, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Medak says he is a hardworking student and learning Karate has further enhanced his confidence levels. He admires Mahatma Gandhi & wants to become a Doctor. Ravikant & Bindu, residents of ODF, Medak & proud parents of Shashvit & Nikshit opine that they look up to people who made a mark by setting an example so that their kids emulate them. Indulging in positive pep talk boosts the morale of our kids.

It means different things to different people. In reality, it is having faith in ourselves. It also reflects how we have been brought up & were taught, what we learn from others, how we think & behave. Confidence is a result of experience & how we react to situations. Our confidence to perform roles and tasks better, deal with situations comes with insight. Low confidence stems from fear, criticism, unhappy with experience, poor self-esteem, poor time management, lack of knowledge. Overconfidence ensures you to do anything, even if you lack the skill sets.

We all need to reconcile the way we think. We should know our strengths and weaknesses. We all make mistakes, accept compliments, use criticism as a learning tool. We need to do some internal cleansing - clear old beliefs, releasing traumatic memories, establish new beliefs.

A good dose of positive self-talk is essential. Encourage yourself, motivating self, positive focus on others. A good sense of guided imagery by visualizing what we want helps in good positive vibes.

There are several techniques to master confidence. You don't have to be loud to be confident. Visualize & affirm yourself, attempt things that scare you, and question your inner critic. Confidence therefore is a skill though not a personality trait.