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Confidence after lockdown

 

During the pandemic I have been working with clients to deal with the realities of life in lockdown. As the restrictions are slowly lifted, one of the biggest issues is self-confidence – or the lack of it. We were forced into a new way of living and it has taken its toll. Working from home, being furloughed, losing a job or having a limited support network, amongst many other factors, have caused major psychological impacts. It is no surprise then that reentering society is causing fear and uncertainty. We are out of practice of social interaction and may feel that we have nothing to offer conversation wise as our world suddenly became very small and, for some, boring, mundane and stressful. To help increase self-confidence here are some tips that you may find useful:

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Small steps and self-compassion are essential. This is another new situation without a certain future and needs to be considered.

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Reflect on a time when you felt confidence and at ease with yourself. What was that situation? Try to recreate the feeling.

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Take charge of your social interactions and build them up at a pace that suits your needs.

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Complete a task that has been on the to do list for a long time. Achievement is a great way to boost self-confidence.

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Create your boundaries now so that you can say no without feeling guilty.

Think about work and imagine yourself being in control, feeling calm and acting confidently. Repeat this process and your mind will associate these feelings with work.

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If you feel overwhelmed take a step back and breathe. Learn how to soothe yourself, whether through meditation, being outside or deep breathing. You will then feel confident that you can calm yourself if needed.

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Be open minded as things have changed and accepting this gives you the confidence and the ability to adapt and move into the new normal.

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Remember that everyone has had to modify their lives through the pandemic and will have their individual struggles. Each one of us deserves to be comfortable with ourselves and we will all be working through at our own pace. Take small steps and celebrate every win!

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