Existing in the time of the Internet can be tough on one’s self-confidence. Online platforms allow people to curate their image and show only their happiest moments. So, if you log into social media with an already-fragile sense of self-worth, your insecurities will likely feel even more dire.
But online life doesn’t have to be all bad! When you approach it thoughtfully, you can use digital tools and advancements to develop as a person beyond the screen. Instead of endlessly scrolling with no real purpose, use your time online to build yourself up and time offline to continue the work. Learn how to build self-confidence in the digital age with these practical tips.
#1: Take Care of Yourself Offscreen
Instead of relying on your social media followers to celebrate you, be your own #1 cheerleader. Engage in positive self-talk to remind yourself of your strengths and admirable qualities. Indulge in acts of self-care that make you feel grounded, like meditation, exercise, or journaling.
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#2: Develop Digital Literacy
Familiarise yourself with the ins and outs of the digital tools and platforms you use daily. Digital literacy isn’t just about knowing how to navigate a website. It also means having the know-how to practise online safety, communicate effectively with others, and think critically about the media you consume. Being well-versed in the digital world makes it easier to thrive in it and learn from the experience.
#3: Keep Learning Through Research
The Internet lets you access endless information in a few clicks. Take advantage of that by learning more about any topic that strikes your fancy! You know what they say: knowledge is power. So, look into fields of study that challenge and excite you. Love sea creatures? Read up on marine biology! Want to understand the human mind? Look for peer-reviewed psych research. Or how about AI? There’s so much to uncover!
#4: Stay Informed and Up to Date
The advent of online news publications has made everyone keenly aware of the fast-paced nature of current events. While it’s impossible to stay on top of everything (everywhere, all at once!), it does help to know the highlights of local and global news. It’s part of being a responsible, well-informed citizen of the world. It also helps you feel more connected to your community and equips you with essential knowledge in case of emergencies. Just remember to get your news from verifiable sources!
#5: Upskill Through Online Resources
Another perk of having all this information at your fingertips? You can sharpen your existing skillset and acquire even more marketable skills. Whether job-hunting or putting yourself up for a promotion, upskilling keeps you competitive. No need to spend on courses, either! Free resources are widely available and reliable, and they can teach you everything from data analytics to digital marketing.
#6: Be Part of Positive Communities
Social media is a haven for bustling online communities. Are you a Taylor Swift fan? Gush about her new album with fellow Swifties on YouTube! Do you love reading? TikTok has “BookTok,” a sub-community of literature lovers. Chatting with people as passionate as you are about your interests can be incredibly validating. But keep it friendly and positive – no flame wars, please!
#7: Express Yourself Through Content
If you’re a creator, digital platforms make it easier to share your work with an audience. It doesn’t all have to be selfies and five-second videos, either. Express yourself through whatever medium calls to you. Try blog posts or newsletters if writing is your jam, post your designs in online galleries, or record a podcast where you freely speak your truth. Don’t get hung up on building a following or gaining traction! When you’re just starting, the most important thing is to enjoy yourself.
#8: Learn to Detox From Social Media
How does social media affect your self-esteem? Despite its usefulness for community-building, personal growth, and learning, social media still has downsides. Being “chronically online” can take a toll on your self-esteem, especially when all you see is everyone else’s best days. Comparing yourself is just the beginning. You might even end up seeking unhealthy external validation or becoming a victim of cyberbullying.
Having so much new information to keep track of daily can also be overwhelming. So, learn to take breaks and limit your usage. Make time and space for “real world” activities, like spending quality time with your loved ones.
Mastering how to build self-confidence isn’t static. Nurture it through self-care and learning from new experiences! Lucky for you, the digital age comes with easy-to-access tools that help you along your growth journey. You just need to know how best to use them!
