Confidence within yourself is something everyone should strive for. Whether you are dealing with issues currently or if you have dealt with them in the past, you can always improve.

Some Miami High students are not confident in themselves.    Trauma therapist Milagros Santiago said that some people have self-confidence problems because of their looks and the feeling of having no skill.

Indeed, sophomore Jessica Garzi said, “I’m not really that confident because of the way I look.” A freshman who wanted to remain anonymous said, “Not really, just everything about me makes me feel bad about myself.”

Others, however overflow with confidence in themselves. Junior Jorge Ramos said, “My confidence is through the roof. I love everything about myself.” Junior Yuri Martinez said, “I feel my confidence is pretty high cause of how well I can play soccer.”

Starting to build your self-confidence is crucial. According to an article published on the website goodtherapy.org, effects of low self confidence are dangerous and can lead to self-harm, depression, social anxiety, and eating disorders.

Ways to help this, according to therapist Milagros Santiago, are to make a list of things you’re good at, practice positive affirmations, minimize social media, and establish goals for self-love and self-care.

Many students are trying. Freshman Adam Sanchez said, “Every day I try and better myself by trying to love each part of myself.” Senior Jarad Higgins said, “My music is something that I reflect off. I love doing it, and I think it’s good, so it boosts my confidence.”

Improving your self-confidence, however, isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Starting this process is something many people struggle with. Some people need a drive to help better their self-confidence. Freshman Miguel Cruz said, “My closest friends motivate me to be better; they help me see who I really am.”

On the other hand, there are people who haven’t tried at all. Senior Nicholas Nunez said, “I really have no clue on how to start bettering myself.”

Others say that they don’t need anything to help themselves. Junior Cameron Castillo said, “I don’t need anyone. To be honest, I want to feel better about myself, but I don’t need to do it for anyone else.”

5 ways to help boost your self confidence

1. List your strengths
2. Positive affirmations
3. Minimize social media use
4. Establish goals for self-love and self-care
5. Kill negative thoughts