Little things can make a big difference to your confidence. Getting the most out of life starts with feeling good about yourself and feeling equipped to deal with whatever each day might bring.

We’ve all seen them – women who stride down the street looking as though they’re comfortable in their own skin.

Woman who glide through life with their heads held high, exuding a quiet confidence. Maybe you’re one of them – or if you’re not, maybe you would like to be.

Believe it or not, self confidence is not something some people are born with and others aren’t. It’s something you learn to have, either as a child or, for some of us, later in life. And it’s never too late!

Confidence comes from knowing who you are and not trying to be someone you’re not. It comes from understanding your unique strengths, following your convictions, doing what comes naturally to you, and not being afraid to express your own individuality.

People who are confident about who they are feel comfortable enough to take responsibility for the results of their actions, admit when they have made a mistake and be flexible when change is needed. They know how to take a compliment without putting themselves down.

But most importantly, they tend to have a positive attitude – to themselves and to life in general. Train your brain by practicing thinking good thoughts: try saying regular affirmations, writing a list of your skills and achievements, and rewarding yourself for your successes. It also helps to write a list of the many things in your life that you feel grateful for. Counting your blessings gives you a sense of perspective on your own place in the big picture, plus lots more reasons to celebrate being the one and only you.

Surround yourself with positive people who appreciate your strengths and bring out the best in you and don’t be shy about copying the behaviour of confident people you admire. Even if you feel like you’re acting a part at first, it will soon become second nature and lead to a more confident-looking, confident-feeling you.

Just as children often feel more confident when they’re clutching their favourite blanket or cuddly toy, many women have their own little tricks that give them a confidence boost. Maybe you’ve got a super-flattering little black dress that always looks amazing, or perhaps you wear high heels to important meetings because they make you feel more authoritative.

Finally, never overlook the importance of arming yourself with the information and equipment you need to tackle new challenges. By planning ahead and being prepared you will feel secure in the knowledge that you can rise to any challenge confidently and with aplomb.

APPLY A LITTLE LIPPY

It’s amazing how much more bravely you can face the world with a slick of lipstick or lipgloss to supercharge your smile. A new hair cut and colour is another instant mood boost.

PHONE A FRIEND

Everyone needs a special someone they can phone for a pep-talk when they’re feeling a little glum – be it your sister, husband, daughter or a best friend forever.

GO FOR A WALK

A burst of exercise is just the thing to give your body and brain a rush of the feel-good hormones we call endorphins.

CHANGE YOUR RINGTONE

Listening to an uplifting piece of music can also produce endorphins. Choose a tune that will remind you of a happy period in your life every time your phone rings.

STAND UP STRAIGHT AND SMILE

Habitual slouching and drowning can drag down your mood and make you look like you lack confidence. Even if you’re not feeling genuinely happy, break the slouch cycle by standing tall and flashing a fake smile – pretty soon it will become the real thing.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

Do something every day that frightens you – whether it’s bungy jumping, public speaking or eating sashimi, facing and exorcising your demons will give you a sense of achievement.

PLAY WITH A CHILD

Laughter really is the best medicine and there’s nothing like a good tickle session with your children or grandchildren to get you giggling and restore your sense of wonder and delight at being alive.

CHOOSE YOUR POWER SCENT

Smells have the ability to transport us to another time and place in a heartbeat. Find a fragrance that makes you feel strong and wear it as your secret charm whenever you’ve got an important meeting or faced with an intimidating situation.

DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE

The best way to feel better about yourself is to help someone else feel good. Volunteer to collect for Plunket, deliver Meals on Wheels or help out at your local school and you’ll feel justifiably proud of yourself.