Modelling Self-Confidence For Your Children

Modeling self-confidence through the below behaviors provides your children with concrete examples to follow, helping them develop their own confidence and self-assurance. Don’t forget to practice what you preach!

1. Speak Positively About Yourself

• Example: When faced with a challenge, say out loud, "I can handle this, or I will ask for help" Never put yourself down and say anything negative about yourself.
• Lesson: This shows children that positive self-talk and believing in one's abilities  is crucial to one’s self-confidence.

2. Take Initiative

• Example: Volunteer for a new project at work or start a new hobby. Share your excitement and plans with your children. Ask them if they have any projects that they can start or volunteer at school.
• Lesson: Taking initiative and stepping out of your comfort zone demonstrates that confidence involves being proactive towards growth and learning.

3. Handle Criticism Constructively

• Example: If you receive constructive feedback, respond with, "Thank you for the feedback. I'll use this to improve." Never belittle f any mistake. It is very damaging to their self-worth.
• Lesson: This teaches children that criticism is an opportunity for growth respectfully delivered.

4. Show Resilience

• Example: When something doesn’t go as planned, say, "That didn't work out, but I'll try a different approach next time." There is always Plan “B”
• Lesson: Demonstrating resilience and a willingness to try again helps children understand that  sometimes things don’t go to plan and that’s okay; a temporary redirect.
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• 5. Set and Achieve Personal Goals

• Example: Share your personal goals with your children, such as training for a marathon or learning a new language, and ask them what goal they may want to take on, asking them f they would like suggestions. Always ask permission. Track both your progress.
• Lesson: This shows the importance of goal-setting and the satisfaction that comes from achieving one's goals.

6. Practice Self-Care

• Example: On a regular basis, take the time for activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good, such as exercising, reading, or spending time with friends. Ask your children what would they like to do and schedule.
• Lesson: Teaching children  the importance of self-care is vital for your mental and emotional well-being.
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• 7. Admit When You Don't Know Something

• Example: If you’re unsure about something, say, "I don’t know the answer to that, but I can find out." Never negate yourself for not knowing and the same applies to your children, we are all human and learn from our mistakes.
• Lesson: Admitting a willingness to learn shows children that it’s okay not to have all the answers and that learning is a lifelong process.

8. Stay Calm Under Pressure

• Example: When dealing with a stressful situation, teach your children the  various easy breathing exercises they can use when dealing with these situations.
• Lesson: Remaining calm under pressure teaches children how to manage stress and be in control.

9. Show Gratitude

• Example: Regularly express gratitude for your accomplishments and the support you receive from others. For instance, say, "I’m really proud of finishing that project, and I’m grateful for your help and encouragement."  Children learn by example.
• Lesson: Showing gratitude reinforces a positive outlook and  teaches children appreciate their achievements and that of others.

10. Be Assertive

• Example: Practice assertive communication in a non-threatening manner by clearly expressing your needs while respecting others. Always acknowledge the other persons opinion.
• Lesson: Assertive communication demonstrates ones self-confidence and self-worth in respectful dialogue.

 Give yourself a Daily Hug!

 Thank yourself for your wins, your challenges, how you handled a difficult situation, for your family, your pets, your job, the house you live in, the daily sunshine, your food, your health, your kind heart and your quest for knowledge.