Confidence is one of those things that you might feel like you either have or you don’t have, especially within the workplace. You might assume that confidence is something that people are just born with, like it’s part of their DNA, so you find yourself discouraged because you don’t seem to just have it. For some, however, confidence doesn’t come as naturally, but it can and should be built up with intentionality. Whether you think you’ve been born with it or not, confidence is something that you have to really work at, hone in on, and strive to believe in yourself until it becomes a part of you. Confidence is an essential quality to have not only to better your career, but also to take care of yourself as a whole person.

In the workplace, you are bound to face circumstances that require confident and decisive action. Whether it’s facing an unexpected deadline or dealing with a client conflict that you have to address quickly, there is often a bit of fear that arises within us during those stressful moments about whether or not we can overcome those challenges. It is precisely in times like these that exuding confidence is important! It’s not easy, but no matter the situation or the anxiety you might feel inside, confidence and composure is what you have to radiate on the outside to show your clients and your employer that you’re not easily flustered and that you can handle those high stress situations. It is also an opportunity to show your colleagues that you’re someone who can truly face challenges head on and be successful, even when you’re out of your comfort zone.

So how do you find this confidence? There’s no easy science to this, but it starts with believing in yourself and is then reinforced with skill building. One of the quickest ways to bring yourself back down to earth when your anxieties about yourself are spinning out of control is by reminding yourself of the times you’ve succeeded or persevered through something that was outside your comfort zone. Your mind can be a powerful thing, and if you foster a positive thought life you will reap tangible benefits.

Once you take the step to think positively, the next course of action is to identify the areas of low-confidence that have become obstacles in your work life. If you are worried about some of your technical skills not being as advance as the rest of the team, then seek out ways to improve! You can take classes and spend time practicing your skills so that you grow stronger and become more comfortable. Ask yourself what skill you are struggling with, and then take action to get better in that area. For example, if you have trouble with public speaking, as so many do, why not practice in a mirror or ask a mentor for some advice on how they get through an important speech? Tackle the areas where you feel self-doubt and soon you’ll start growing in confidence quicker than you thought possible.

Confidence has numerous professional benefits, but as said before, confidence can also benefit your wellbeing and happiness. Think of the times you’ve let self-doubt seep into your mind; the worry, the sleepless nights of thinking that you might not accomplish something, or wondering if you deserve that promotion you been vying for. Don’t go there! Thoughts like that can only harm your emotional wellbeing. Being secure within yourself and who you are will only bring you prosperity in both your personal life and your career. Remind yourself that you are worthwhile and you will find a new sense of confidence. If you can learn to value yourself and see your own worth, others around will see it too, and soon enough you’ll be on the path to success!