Chapter 1: My Journey from Shyness to Confidence

Throughout my childhood, I was extremely introverted. Even in recent years, I found it challenging to make a simple phone call to my doctor without significant mental preparation. Engaging in conversations with strangers or deep discussions felt daunting.

Accepting compliments was another hurdle; I often downplayed my achievements and attributed any success to external factors. The most troubling aspect was how I perceived myself: a frail, unattractive figure hunched over in my mind. Confidence was noticeably absent.

However, everything shifted when I realized that I didn't need a specific reason to feel confident. For years, I sought justification—an effortless trick or a magical solution that would instill immense self-assurance without any effort on my part. I chased accolades, positive experiences, and even solicited compliments from friends, but nothing seemed to work.

After enduring years of shyness and insecurity, I finally understood that my confidence would not improve if I remained passive. I took charge and discovered that confidence is a choice we can make.

This realization may sound implausible, but think about it: When did you last consciously decide to be confident? Often, we hope for confidence to come to us by chance, without engaging in activities that promote self-assurance.

We tend to wish for a sudden surge of confidence, but when we make the choice to be confident, our mindset transforms. This decision triggers our brain to confirm our new outlook (thanks to Confirmation Bias), leading to Self-Fulfilling Prophecies. We start to notice opportunities and evidence of our newfound confidence, and before we know it, we experience the feelings we've longed for.

The journey begins with a simple decision—no justification or proof required.

The first video, "If You Lack CONFIDENCE & Want To Raise Your SELF-ESTEEM - WATCH THIS" by Jay Shetty, discusses powerful strategies for enhancing self-esteem and confidence.

Beyond this initial insight, here are additional strategies to further elevate your confidence:

Section 1.1: Master a Skill

Aim to become proficient in a particular area—dedicate yourself to learning and improving until you outperform 99% of others in that field. This often requires reading about 100 books on a subject. The journey toward mastery is what truly cultivates confidence, rather than the achievement itself.

Subsection 1.1.1: Confront Your Fears

Are you afraid of heights? Consider skydiving! Fearful of spiders? Visit a spider museum. Shy about conversing with strangers? Join a local club to practice socializing! Conquering fears instills the belief that your limitations are less restrictive than you thought, broadening your horizons and fostering deep-rooted self-assurance.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Physical Presence

In the second video, "How to Build UNSHAKABLE Self Confidence" from The Mel Robbins Podcast, practical tips for establishing enduring self-confidence are shared, emphasizing the importance of body language and mindset.

Moving with confidence is backed by the Embodiment Theory in Psychology. The way we carry ourselves can influence our emotions. Standing tall, occupying space, and walking with intention are just a few techniques that can enhance feelings of confidence.

“Motion creates Emotion,” as Tony Robbins famously stated.