Whether you’ve just gotten out of a long-term relationship or you are dating for the first time, self-esteem and confidence play a major role on how your dating life goes. When you jump back into the dating scene, it can be hard to adjust from being comfortable with where you are. But no matter where you’re starting from, dating doesn’t have to be difficult or scary. With the right attitude, it can be a fun and exhilarating experience where you can learn a lot about yourself and another person. Here are some ways you can build dating confidence.
Achieve Self-Acceptance and Self-Awareness
Before you jump into a relationship, it’s important to know and like yourself. By taking the time to figure out what you like and dislike, why you think the way you do and how you interact in relationships, you embark on a journey of self-discovery that will make you a better person. Get to know yourself by journaling, conversing with people you trust or spending time alone to think about various topics and ideas.
The more comfortable you are in your own skin, the easier it will be to interact with others, especially on dates. Being more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings will eventually channel into self-acceptance. Happy individuals who accept themselves are happier in relationships, too.
Invest in Relationships
If you want to build dating confidence, it’s important to invest in relationships that will build you up to be the best version of yourself. Some people, including friends and family members, can be toxic — cut them out of your life. Keep only those people who are genuine and care for your well-being. Choose to surround yourself with people who are confident and encourage you to think positively about life. You are a culmination of the five people you spend the most time with so be choosy about who you surround yourself with. The people who benefit your life will give you sound advice for when you date and will be there to support you along the way.
Gain Skills
Much of the time, we feel self-conscious when we feel inadequate about something. To counteract these negative feelings, invest in skills that will add to your career or that will become lifetime hobbies. One thing you can do is start a business in direct sales with successful companies like Amway. When you feel that you’ve learned how to do something well, you’ll gain confidence in that area and soon you’ll be able to teach someone else. Teaching someone how to do something can be a great bonding experience while dating. Again, the more confidence you gain as an individual, the more you’ll be able to carry that through in a relationship.
Look Good, Feel Good
Body language can say a lot about how a person is feeling. When you take up more space around you, it shows that you are confident and relaxed. When you withdraw into yourself, it sends the message that you are uncomfortable or anxious about something. If you feel that you becoming withdrawn, take the initiative to relax your body and don’t be afraid to take up more space with your body. Changing your body posture can change your attitude.
Also, remember that when you look good, you feel good. No matter what your size is, you’ll feel great when you wear clothes that fit well. If you already have clothes that you like and that fit you, great. But if you find yourself rummaging your closet for clothes you don’t own, take the time before a date to go shopping for several pieces that will look and feel good on you.
This is written by Elizabeth Cho, Co-founder of DOERS.coffee Coffee enthusiast. Aspiring OT. Freelance writer of all things interesting.