Self Confidence Through Writing

Self-Confidence through Writing

For those who have unpleasant memories of freshman composition, writing may seem like the least likely source of self-confidence possible. With the right approach, it can be surprisingly effective.



Think about the last time your self-confidence hit a low. Maybe a co-worker got the promotion you had been hoping for or a relationship ended. Remember all of the feelings that got in the way of a positive self-image. When you are faced with those moments, you need a way to get all of those bad feelings out. Writing can be the perfect way to clear your mind and increase your confidence.

Writing a journal can be a cathartic experience, meaning that it allows you to release pent-up emotions. Dwelling on unpleasant feelings can be a vicious confidence killer.

You do not need any special materials to begin a journal. Grab a few sheets of loose-leaf paper and a pen and start writing. You can also sit down at your computer, open a new document and start typing. The important thing is to get those feelings down on paper.

If you think it would help you get in the habit of writing about your feelings, you may want to spring for an actual diary or at the very least a notebook or composition book that will keep your thoughts in order. Stop by the local bookstore and purchase a high-quality bound blank journal because your journey to self-confidence is worth the extra expense.

In the past year or two, blogs have increasingly taken the place of the traditional lock-and-key diary, but you want to be careful if you are using an online forum for venting. When your little brother found your diary and read that you hated your teacher, you were just annoyed. If your boss found your blog and read that you hated him, you might be unemployed.

Despite the potential pitfalls, one advantage of writing your feelings in a blog or other online venue is that you can receive instant feedback from your readers, building confidence when they commiserate with your problems and support you in your accomplishments.

If you are feeling symbolic, there are a few ways that you can add to the impact of your writing. After you have written about a particularly troubling experience or nagging feelings of self-doubt, destroy your words. Rip the paper into tiny pieces, or use it as kindling in the fireplace. The more hands-on the process, the better. Deleting the file off your computer just will not give you the same visceral effect as watching your doubts go up in flames.

Writing that focuses on positive experiences can also build confidence in a hands-on way. Create a list of your ten best qualities or five biggest accomplishments. Write it on high-quality paper using your best handwriting or print it in a fancy font. Then post it in a location where you'll see it every day.

Maybe you would like to receive some inspiration with your breakfast; hang it on your refrigerator. Perhaps you need a boost at work; tack it on your personal bulletin board. On the other hand, if you don't like the idea of the daily reminder, you can even tuck it away in a special place to be read only when you're feeling particularly down.

While you write about bad memories and unpleasant experiences to purge the negative feelings from your mind, writing about some of your best moments can also have an impact on your self-confidence. Think of it as a memoir in progress. Look back on your positive memories whenever you need to boost your self-confidence.

If you've been writing about your feelings to gain self-confidence but wish that you could broaden the audience for your words, you might be ready for the next step. Consider writing pieces for publication, either online or in print. A personal essay can have the same cathartic power as a journal entry while also inspiring readers. If you've just been through a tough time, think about how empowering it would be to help others who are facing the same situation. You will also gain self-confidence if you are seen as an expert on a topic, whether you're writing about fishing or finance.

So the next time you feel down, consider picking up a pen for a much-needed self-confidence boost.