5 secrets to gaining genuine self-confidence

We all have good days and bad days. Some days we leave the house feeling like Beyonce, and other days, not so much. While some people are born singing their own praises, some of us need a little help to remind ourselves just how awesome we are. Because, as the saying goes, the longest, most significant relationship you will ever have is the one you have with yourself.

With the help of TANNED Australia ambassador Kris Smith – who knows a thing or two about confidence as a runway model - here are five tips guaranteed to help you gain genuine self love and never feel like an imposter again.

1. Fake it until you make it

OK, we know this term gets bandied about a lot, but the fact is, the more you do something, the more it will become second nature. Habits take time to form, so the more you tell yourself how amazing you are, even if you don’t quite always feel it, the quicker you will start to believe it and break the cycle of negativity. It sounds cheesy, but as you’re going out the door, give yourself a compliment (say it out loud for extra effect!).

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2. Start a gratitude ritual

Each night before bed, reflect on your day and think about all the good things that happened to you. Anything big or small counts – just make sure you commit to a minimum of three.

“Each night in bed, I tell myself 10 things I did well that day, either minor or major… anything that is a compliment to myself,” says Kris. “Then I give myself three things I could have done differently. Watch how your mind changes when you go to sleep crediting yourself.

3. Get moving

Exercise can sometimes be the last thing we feel like doing, but it’s one of the most important things you can do for your body and your mind. Exercise helps clear your head, gets your blood pumping and releases endorphins that make you feel good. Exercise doesn’t have to be scary. It can start with a walk (bonus points for being outside in the fresh air!) or yoga, swimming, running – anything that gets you moving.

“I walk a lot,” says Kris. “I look at things, people, and I quickly thank my lucky stars for the position I’m in. I’m healthy and I have a place to live... I’m pretty damn good where I am. And voila, mood changed.”

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4. Find your calm

As well as getting active, you need to find moments to calm and centre yourself. In our busy lives, we can find ourselves on a hamster wheel, and stress can make even the most minor situation feel overwhelming. Prioritise time for rest and relaxation – and getting enough sleep at night. Schedule time for you to just be alone, read books, meditate, do yoga, practice deep breathing or anything that helps you stop and just reset.

5. Remember that our differences are what make us special

Stop comparing your body/face/hair/skin with anyone else. There will only ever be one you and that is your superpower. Stop surrounding yourself with people (or following them on social media) who don’t make you feel 100 per cent amazing when you are in their presence. Join groups, take up a hobby or follow the accounts of people of all different shapes, sizes, skin colours and ways of life. You’ll quickly see diversity is something to be celebrated.