If You Can Do These 9 Things Without Seeking Approval, You Have Unshakable Confidence
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Good news, you can build confidence
Have you ever watched someone walk into a room and just own it—completely at ease, totally themselves, and not the least bit self-conscious? Confidence is one of those things that we all admire, but let’s be real—it doesn’t always come naturally.
The good news? Self-confidence isn’t something you’re just born with; it’s something you can build. If you’ve ever wondered how truly confident people move through life without overthinking or second-guessing themselves, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into some signs that show you’ve got rock-solid confidence (or are well on your way to getting there!).
1. Eating Alone in Public
Many people avoid dining alone because they fear looking awkward or lonely. But truly confident people enjoy their own company and don’t need an audience to have a great meal.
How to Get There: Start small. Go for a solo coffee or lunch at a casual café where people often sit alone. Bring a book, journal, or listen to a podcast if it helps you feel more at ease. Over time, work up to a full dinner at a restaurant without distractions. You’ll realize that no one is judging you—most people are too busy with their own meals!
2. Dancing Like Nobody's Watching
Dancing in public—whether at a party, wedding, or concert—can feel intimidating, but confident people know that enjoying the moment is more important than looking “cool.”
How to Get There: Try dancing at home in front of a mirror to get comfortable with your movements. Then, start with small public settings—a casual concert in the park, a dance class, or a low-pressure gathering with friends. Eventually, you’ll feel free enough to hit the dance floor without overanalyzing every step.
3. Making Decisions Without Seeking Approval
It’s natural to ask for advice, but relying too much on others’ opinions can signal self-doubt. Confident people trust their own judgment.
How to Get There: Start by making small choices—order the dish you actually want instead of asking your friend what they’re getting. Pick a weekend activity without running it by everyone first. As you build self-trust, you’ll gain confidence in bigger decisions, like career moves or life changes.
4. Admitting When You Are Wrong
It takes real confidence to say, “I was wrong.” Many people avoid admitting mistakes because they fear looking weak, but owning up actually makes you stronger.
How to Get There: Shift your mindset—see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. Next time you realize you were wrong, say it out loud: “You know what? You’re right, I made a mistake.” Start practicing in safe spaces (friends, family) before applying it in professional or social situations.
5. Accepting Compliments
Do you brush off compliments with, “Oh, this old thing?” or “I just got lucky”? Confident people accept kind words without downplaying themselves.
How to Get There: Next time someone gives you a compliment, simply say, “Thank you.” That’s it—no justifications or deflections. If this feels uncomfortable, practice in front of a mirror until it becomes natural.
6. Speaking Up in a Group
Whether it’s at work, a social event, or a classroom, speaking up can feel nerve-wracking. But confident people know their voice matters and aren’t afraid to share their thoughts.
How to Get There: Start by speaking up in smaller groups or low-pressure situations. Ask a question in a casual meeting, share an opinion in a group chat, or participate in discussions with close friends. Over time, work up to larger audiences and high-stakes conversations.
7. Saying No Without Guilt
Many people say “yes” to things they don’t want to do out of fear of disappointing others. Confident individuals, however, set boundaries without feeling guilty.
How to Get There: Begin with small “no’s.” If someone asks for a favor that you don’t have time for, practice saying, “I appreciate you asking, but I can’t this time.” Over time, you’ll realize that saying no doesn’t make you rude—it simply means you value your time and well-being.
Related Article: 15 Life-Changing Habits Your Futures Self Will Thank you For
8. Walking Into a Room With Confidence
Confident people don’t shrink themselves or avoid eye contact when entering a room. They carry themselves with ease, showing that they feel secure in their presence.
How to Get There: Practice good posture—stand tall, relax your shoulders, and make eye contact with at least one person as you enter a space. If walking into a room alone feels intimidating, start by doing it in familiar settings, like a coffee shop or a friend’s gathering, before applying it to professional or networking events.
9. Wearing What You Love Without Fear of Judgment
Fashion is a form of self-expression, yet many people dress to fit in rather than to feel good. Confident people wear what makes them happy, regardless of trends or opinions.
How to Get There: Start by incorporating small elements of your personal style—maybe it’s a bold color, a unique accessory, or an outfit you’ve always wanted to try. Gradually push yourself to wear what truly feels like you, without worrying about what others think.
10. Not Apologizing for Who You Are
Confident people don’t constantly say “sorry” for expressing emotions, having opinions, or taking up space. They know their worth and don’t feel the need to minimize themselves.
How to Get There: Pay attention to unnecessary apologies—are you saying “sorry” for things that don’t require an apology? Start replacing “sorry” with “thank you” (e.g., instead of “Sorry for being late,” say “Thank you for waiting”). This small shift can help reinforce your confidence over time.
Ready to Build Unshakable Confidence?
Confidence is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Start with small steps, challenge yourself, and watch your self-doubt fade away. Which of these confidence-boosting habits are you working on? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
💬 Let’s chat! What’s one thing you’ll start doing today to build your confidence?
👉 If this post helped you, share it with a friend who needs a little confidence boost! 💛
