You know those days when your jeans fit uncomfortably tight? Those days when you wake up with yet another pimple even though you’re almost 40 and should be long past acne? Those days when you can’t get your hair to do what it’s supposed to? Oh, you don’t know? That doesn’t happen to you? Oh. Well, let’s just say that hypothetically speaking I have a friend who has days like that. And let’s just say that every now and then we all have those days when our self-esteem isn’t exactly through the roof and our confidence is playing hide and seek with us. What do you do on those days? Is it still possible to walk with confidence? Can you be brave to do the things you need to do? Have the conversations you need to have? Give that presentation?
Feeling particularly vulnerable and threatened by the negative, antagonistic voices in my head, I decided it was time to wage war and strategize to beat an “ugly day” or days for that matter. Waging war against an elusive and ambiguous enemy, I knew I might be fighting an uphill battle, but a battle worth fighting nonetheless.
The next day you too may be attacked by the insecurities and lies in your head, try these four things to help you have a “beautiful” day.
1. CHOOSE YOUR VERSE
Find truth to help you defeat the lies. Choose a verse that can remind you of God’s power, or his love and grace for you. Choose a verse that defines who you really are. Declare it as truth.
2. TELL A TRUSTED FRIEND
Sometimes when we speak our inner thoughts out loud we realize how silly we sound and those thoughts and insecurities lose their power. Sometimes our friends are able to speak life into us, encouraging us, or helping us to worry less.
3. PRAY TO THE ONE WHO GIVES US EVERY REASON TO BE CONFIDENT
Even if you’re not used to praying, or are feeling disconnected from God, you can find safety and security in coming to God. Tell him what you’re feeling. Ask him for confidence. Ask him for help in making the brave choices.
4. MAKE A BOLD CHOICE ANYWAY
Even when the last thing you want to do is draw attention to yourself, or fear is warning you of failure, or you’re leaning into potential criticism, make a bold choice anyway. Step out on faith. Straighten up and walk with your head held high. Smile. Say hello to someone. Get out of your comfort zone, or just out of your house. The only way to build confidence is to take action and risk something.
The war may not be over, but identifying and adopting these four strategies can give us both enough victories to surge forward and have the upper hand against our enemies – even if our own mind is the enemy.
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