How to be a more confident person
I've always been a shy person, right from when I was a kid. I would rather read my book at lunchtime and spend my weekends playing The Sims. But somehow i ended up being a journalist where I have to talk to strangers and interview people everyday. So how did this introvert go from a teenage bookworm to a magazine writer? Well, I am and always be an introvert, but here are some tips I picked up along the way...
1. Fake it till you make it
Last month I had to help manage a Facebook live stream on the red carpet at a massive event. It involved running around looking for "celebrities", introducing myself, convincing them to be on our live stream and then making awkward small talk till it was their turn to be on camera. I'm getting flustered just thinking about it again!
I managed to wrangle a Bachelor NZ star and proceeded to start entertaining him while he waited in line. When he complimented me on what a good job I was doing I couldn't help but laugh and confess, "I'm freaking out on the inside, you have no idea." And guess what? He hadn't even noticed, in fact he thought I looked totally confident.
So that brings me to lesson one. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you want to run and hide in the bathroom, just pretend you know what you're doing and you're a confidence queen. Chances are no one will notice.
2. Phone a friend
Life is always easier when you've got a buddy by your side. Whenever I'm out and about wanting to take photos or worse, vlog in public (the horror!), I find it so hard to be confident riding solo.
But, if I've got Tara or my boyfriend by my side, I automatically feel a whole lot better. Never underestimate the power of a good friend.
The next time you've got an event or party coming up, don't be afraid to ask if you can take a plus one, the more the merrier after all and it can make the world of difference when it comes to having a good time.
“The most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.”
3. Dress the part
If I've got a big day of meetings and interviews ahead of me, I always like to put on a girl boss outfit and some light makeup. When I look in the mirror and see myself in a smart outfit, it gives me an instant lift. Yes, some people might think that's superficial, but for me it really helps.
My favourite go-to look is a navy suit and a bold red lipstick. There's a high chance I have forgotten to wash my hair too, so a slick pulled-back bun always finishes off the outfit nicely.
4. Just be kind
Put your hand up if meeting new people terrifies you? Same girl, same. But one method that helps me get over this fear is to try push aside my negative thoughts and just be nice. It's simple, but effective.
For example, instead of worrying about what this new person will think of you, whether they will like your hair or think you're funny, just focus on being a genuine kind person. Smile at them, go in for a handshake or a hug depending on the situation, ask questions about them and be interested in what they have to say. If you like their outfit, tell them! You might feel horribly nervous on the inside, but this new acquaintance will come away thinking about what a lovely person you were, and that's what's important.