Activities to Increase Confidence: 10 Effective Ways to Build Self-Esteem

Confidence isn’t something you’re born with — it’s something you build through small, intentional actions every day. Whether you struggle with self-doubt, social anxiety, or low self-esteem, there are simple activities to increase confidence that can help you step into your best self. In this article, we’ll explore proven exercises, daily routines, and mindset habits to strengthen your inner belief and self-worth.

1. Practice Positive Self-Talk Daily

One of the simplest yet most effective confidence-building activities is to monitor and replace negative self-talk. Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” reframe your thoughts to “I’m learning and improving.” Positive affirmations rewire your brain to see opportunities instead of obstacles.

Write down five affirmations every morning, such as “I am confident,” “I am worthy of success,” and “I can handle challenges with grace.” Learn more about how self-talk affects confidence at Psychology Today.

2. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Confidence grows through action. When you push yourself to try new experiences — even small ones like speaking up in a meeting or taking a solo walk — you train your mind to handle discomfort with courage.

Start by setting a weekly challenge: introduce yourself to a stranger, share your opinion in a group, or volunteer to lead a small project. The more you take these steps, the easier they become.

3. Keep a “Confidence Journal”

Writing about your daily wins helps reinforce self-belief. Every night, jot down three things you accomplished — no matter how small. Over time, this simple activity increases your awareness of personal growth.

Research shows that journaling enhances self-reflection and emotional regulation (Greater Good Science Center).

4. Exercise for Mind-Body Confidence

Physical movement is a powerful way to boost both body confidence and mental strength. Activities such as yoga, running, or dancing help release endorphins, which naturally elevate your mood and confidence levels.

Even 20 minutes of daily exercise can make a difference. You can explore beginner-friendly workouts from trusted sources like Healthline.

5. Develop a New Skill

Learning something new, such as cooking, painting, or a foreign language, reinforces your sense of capability. Each skill mastered becomes a building block of confidence.

Free learning platforms like Coursera or Skillshare offer great opportunities to start developing skills at your own pace.

6. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences

The people you spend time with directly impact your self-esteem. Surround yourself with uplifting individuals who celebrate your progress and believe in your potential. Avoid toxic relationships that drain your confidence.

Connect with supportive communities online — for instance, through self-improvement forums or social groups aligned with your interests.

7. Dress with Confidence

Your outfit can influence how you feel about yourself. Wearing clothes that make you feel strong and comfortable can instantly boost self-esteem. Confidence starts from within, but presentation helps reinforce it.

Psychologists refer to this as “enclothed cognition” — the idea that clothing impacts performance and mindset (Scientific American).

8. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life. When you appreciate your achievements and blessings, you naturally increase your self-worth and resilience.

Try writing three things you’re grateful for every day. You can even use a gratitude app like Gratefulness.me to make it a daily habit.

9. Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful technique used by athletes and entrepreneurs alike. Imagine yourself confidently achieving your goals — see it, feel it, and believe it. This primes your mind to act in alignment with success.

Guided visualization exercises are available on platforms like Headspace or Calm.

10. Celebrate Progress — Not Perfection

Confidence thrives when you acknowledge how far you’ve come. Focus on progress, not perfection. Every small win counts, and consistent effort is what truly builds lasting confidence.

Remember, confidence is not about never feeling fear — it’s about taking action in spite of it. You can read more about growth mindset and confidence from Mind UK.

Bonus: Join a Personal Development Program

If you’re serious about raising your confidence, consider joining structured programs that focus on mindset, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Websites like Verywell Mind and Self Development Secrets offer excellent articles and online courses to guide your journey.

Final Thoughts on Confidence-Building Activities

Confidence is not a destination — it’s a daily practice. The more you invest in activities to increase confidence, the more self-assured and empowered you become. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate every step forward. Over time, your self-esteem will rise naturally, helping you thrive in all areas of life — from relationships to career growth.