Editor’s Note: Dance like no one’s watching

As Tom Cochrane once sang, “Life is a highway” and to my way of thinking life may be likened to just that.

Speed bumps along the way make us slow down, stop, or take a different direction. The journey is usually enjoyable for those who believe in themselves, and have the confidence to try new things, experience different cultures, and are not afraid to back themselves.

Self-confidence is a common factor inherent in those who follow their dreams, yet sadly I hear more and more about those suffering from a lack of self-confidence and how it impacts their lives for worse, not better.

Building self-confidence isn’t easy; there’s no recipe and it is not one size fits all. Knowing what causes low self-esteem helps. Ongoing stressful life events such as a relationship breakdown, financial trouble, job loss, poor treatment from a partner, parent or carer, and being in an abusive relationship all contribute.

Improving self-confidence is about courage; having the courage to try new things and dance like no one is watching. Of course, they will be watching and some may even be judgemental; just don’t let them get to you.

Trying to control how others see us—whether by meeting their standards or pretending they don’t exist—is a losing game. Letting go of that need is far more liberating, opening the door to connection and inspiration.

Self-confidence and self-care are often closely linked, so do make an effort, each and every time. Build positive relationships. Those who are negative and try to bring you down can often drain your confidence, so ditch them, and seek out those who do inspire you.

Challenge yourself to take small steps towards achieving bigger goals, and don’t forget to dance from time to time. That way you’ll inspire others to follow in your footsteps.