When I’m not working at Gullotta Orthodontics I’m focussing on becoming a successful actor, which means I have had to learn a few lessons about being confident. The last thing that a casting director wants to see when I walk in the room is a sheepish young woman who is over-apologetic and too shy to ask any questions, which means I’ve had to learn to adapt to survive even though it doesn’t come naturally.
So here are my top tips for achieving confidence (or at least faking it ‘til you make it!)
Positive Self Talk
Although it may sound silly, talking yourself up is known to have a huge positive impact on your confidence and self-esteem. An article published on the National Public Radio website even suggests that self-talk may be more than just a confidence booster – from a neuroscience perspective, it might be more like internal re-modelling. Start telling yourself daily positive affirmations e.g. I am strong, I am confident, I am great at my job, I am going to crush this interview etc. You’ll be amazed at the impact it will have on your day to day thoughts.
Fake it ‘til you make it
This is something I hear professional actors talk about all the time when referring to auditions and the principle can be applied to situations in everyday life too. Have an oral presentation tomorrow? Imagine that you are a world-renowned public speaker and everyone has paid to hear you speak on your topic. Even if you don’t feel confident, nobody will know unless you let it show. Put on your coat of confidence armour and I guarantee you’ll crush it!
Smile, Smile, Smile
When I see someone smiling, I don’t think to myself “Wow, they look so nervous/shy/uncomfortable.” I think to myself “They look happy, positive and confident” – plus when you smile you’re guaranteed to make someone else smile too! Working for an Orthodontist, I understand that this is really hard for some people because they don’t like their smile. There is nothing better than hearing a patient tell us that they are now confident enough to smile in photos and don’t have to worry about how their teeth look anymore. So if you want this to be you, make sure to give us a call on 5532 3433 to book your FREE initial consultation with Dr Gullotta. We’d love you to look and feel confident, positive and happy – so book in today!