Boost your self-confidence: 7 tips against shyness

These are moments that almost everyone has experienced: You're at a party, hardly know anyone and don't really know what to do with yourself. Or you have to give a speech, speak in front of lots of people and are so excited that you want to walk out of the room backwards. In situations like these, we feel insecure, anxious and nervous. The good news is that this is completely normal and happens to many people. In most cases, our self-confidence just needs a little boost to help us overcome our - usually unnecessary - fears and concerns. And it's not that complicated - with a little practice, it gets easier every time.

Mit leichten Übungen lässt sich unser Selbstbewusstsein stärken© adobestock
With a little practice, we can now master any situation with ease

A great SOS trick, for example, is to close your eyes and count slowly to four as you inhale and to six as you exhale. If you also raise your shoulders first and then lower them again, you will quickly notice that your excitement disappears, your heart immediately starts to beat more calmly and you feel more balanced and stronger.

It's all a question of posture

The "high status pose" subconsciously provides inner strength. To do this, sit for a minute with your hands clasped behind your neck and place your feet on the table in front of you. Or support yourself on the table with your arms outstretched wide.

Assume the best

Have you ever heard of "self-fulfilling prophecies"? Our expectations influence our behavior - and other people react to them. In short: if we expect bad things, good things rarely come out of it. Therefore: always expect that everything will work out for the best for you. If you encourage yourself out loud, this effect will be amplified. And you will radiate self-confidence.

Courage to say trivial things

If you want to talk to other people with confidence, you don't have to pull out the big guns. On the contrary: good small talk thrives on nice trivialities. Have the confidence to talk about everyday things. At a party where you don't know many people, talk about what's particularly tasty on the buffet.

Wiggle your toes

No joke: many people do this instinctively when they are stressed - just unconsciously. However, the positive effect is lost. However, if you do the movement consciously, you will immediately feel calm in your head. Definitely give it a try!

Sniff a green apple

Sounds strange, but it works. According to researchers, the smell of green apples can actually combat anxiety and nervousness and reduce stress levels. Chamomile, for example, has a similarly calming effect. If you want to increase your fighting spirit, however, you should smell menthol.

Get out of your comfort zone

Simply wish the kiosk salesperson a nice day, ask a stranger what time it is or sit in the front row at a lecture ... See what happens if you go against your "I don't want to stand out" instinct. It may take some effort at first, but you'll see: Over time, it will feel really good and your self-confidence will grow bit by bit. It's best to regularly incorporate small exercises like this into your everyday life. Helps!

Smile away your insecurities

This not only makes you instantly likeable, but is also the best ice-breaker in conversations. It shows others that you are interested in a conversation and encourages them to approach you. A smile has also been proven to put us in a good mood.


Our book tips:

The author explains in ten steps what constitutes positive self-esteem and how you can build it up. 19.99 euros. Humboldt Publishing House

No more doubts! This book helps the reader to be in harmony with their feelings and to love themselves.
13,90 Euro. Cherry Media GmbH

Self-confidence and joie de vivre can be learned. Author Tina Schütze gives tips. With great exercises! 9.99 euros. Fischer