Expressing yourself can be really tough. You have so much flying through your head, that it is hard to find the right words that fit exactly you mean, or even who you are.
Okay, the first thing to do is not talk but listen – listen to yourself. Think about what you want to express about yourself and why.
What might help is making a list of things or traits that make you, you. Generally, when we are talking to someone and trying express ourselves, we feel the pressure, and it makes things a whole lot harder. So, it might be a good idea to find a quiet a space and write a few sentences that start with:
“I am____”
“I like____”
“I feel____”
“I want___”
Just make them simple and straight forward sentences. It might help to remember some of these for the next time you are talking to someone.
If you are not happy with the words you use to express yourself, look up synonyms – different words that mean the same thing. Make a list and these and practice using them in conversation. For example, instead of saying “I am a happy person”, you could say “I am an upbeat person”
Keep practicing as much as you can. Find someone you feel comfortable with and practice with them at first. You are not going to get it the first-time round, but you will get better.
Lastly, remember your value. Yes, that’s right, you have value, no matter what you tell yourself, or other people have told you. See your words as a way for others to see your value.
All the best.
Change your perspective and uncover a way forward for you!
Here are some things that can help you with that.
YouTube
Great
reads
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
This book helps you embrace your imperfections and accept yourself for who you are, rather than living a fake life trying impress others.
The Self-Love Experiment by Shannon Kaiser
Shannon Kaiser walks you through her own personal experiment, a simple plan that compassionately guides you through the process of removing fear-based thoughts, so you can fall in love with life.
The Fine Art of Small Talk by Debra Fine
Packed with practical advice and conversation cheat sheets, this book will help you learn to feel more comfortable in any type of social situation.
Great
Films
Eigth Grade
Kayla Day, is in the eighth grade. She is introverted but also posts videos about self-confidence online. Soon, she realises she is not the person she is pretending to be and has to accept that.
The King's Speech
King George VI tries to overcome his stammering problem with the help of speech therapist Lionel Logue and makes himself worthy enough to lead his country through World War II.
He Named Me Malala
After the Taliban tries to kill her for speaking out on behalf of girls' education, Pakistani teenager Malala Yousafzai emerges as a leading advocate for children's rights and the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.
Spotify
This playlist will make you feel like you can conquer the world.
Podcasts
The Verywell Mind Podcast with Amy Morin
This podcast is crammed full of practical discussions and advice on everything from confidence to self-doubt.
The Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset
In this episode Jonny discusses chasing confidence and self-esteem. Sound familiar?
Confidence & Self Esteem Podcast
This episode discusses getting slightly out of your comfort zone and challenging yourself and I'm no different when it comes
Places to find more resources
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