Author: adminlife

Create a Vision Board That Actually Works

~ adminlife

vision board

 

Vision boards are often written off as wishful thinking or trendy “manifestation” gimmicks. But when used properly, they can be a powerful tool to help you stay focused, motivated and aligned with your goals.

A vision board isn’t magic. It won’t make your dream life appear without effort. What it will do is keep your most important goals front and centre, helping you take consistent action and stay emotionally connected to your vision. Think of it as a compass that reminds you where you’re going — and why you’re going there.

Before you can start to plan your success goals, there are many things that you need to understand before you can be sure that the goals you set are really the ones you want.

One of those things is to determine if there are any Limiting Beliefs that can stop you from actually achieving those goals.

I have a self-study Limiting Belief Program that you can go through to determine what your Limiting Beliefs are and how you can remove them.

You can read more and register for the program at Limiting Beliefs Program on my Confidence and Life Coaching website.

Start your journey on your path to success by identifying and removing your Limiting Beliefs so that you make the journey a lot easier.

You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program

Here’s how to make a vision board that actually works and why it can speed up your journey toward real achievement.

What a Vision Board Really Does

A vision board is a physical representation of your goals. It’s usually a poster or board covered in images, words and symbols that reflect what you want to be, do, or have.

Here’s what it really helps with:

  • Clarifies your goals – You can’t create a vision board without first deciding what you actually want.
  • Keeps your goals in sight – Literally. You see them daily, which keeps them alive in your mind.
  • Builds emotional connection – The images help you feel the goal, which fuels motivation.
  • Heightens awareness – You’ll start to notice more opportunities that align with your goals.

Step 1: Get Clear on What You Want

Before you even pull out the glue stick, take time to reflect. What do you want your life to look like in the next 1–3 years?

  • Where do you want to live?
  • How do you want to feel each day?
  • What career or lifestyle are you aiming for?
  • What kind of relationships do you want?
  • What experiences do you crave?

You don’t need to want what others want. This is about your vision. Be honest, be bold and be specific. A vague dream leads to vague results.

If you’re unsure, give yourself a full day to explore. Journal. Think. Narrow it down. You can’t focus on 100 things — pick the goals that matter most.

Step 2: Find Visual Representations

Once your goals are clear, find images that match them. Use magazines, printouts or online tools like Pinterest or Canva.

When selecting images:

  • Choose ones that trigger emotion. You want to feel the excitement, joy or pride the real-life version would bring.
  • Don’t settle for generic pictures. Go for visuals that resonate deeply.
  • Include quotes or words if they inspire you.

For example, if your goal is to get in shape, don’t just find a stock photo of a gym. Choose an image of someone confidently lifting weights, running on the beach or glowing with post-workout energy.

Step 3: Design Your Board

There are no rules here. You can go minimal or collage-style. You can separate goals by category or blend everything together.

Some options:

  • One large board with all areas of life
  • Multiple small boards, one for each focus (health, career, relationships, etc.)
  • Digital version using tools like Canva or a Pinterest board

The key is this: design it in a way that excites you. You want to enjoy looking at it every day.

Step 4: Place It Where You’ll See It

Out of sight means out of mind. Don’t let your vision board collect dust in a drawer. Put it somewhere you’ll see it daily:

  • On your bedroom wall
  • Next to your desk
  • In your closet door
  • As your phone or computer wallpaper (use a photo of the board)

The more often you see it, the more it reinforces your goals.

Step 5: Use It Every Day

Your vision board isn’t just decoration — it’s a tool. Use it actively.

  • Morning: Spend 1–2 minutes looking at your board. Visualize living the life shown on it.
  • Evening: Reflect on the day. Did you take steps toward those goals? What will you do tomorrow?

This routine builds consistency. It keeps your goals top of mind and reinforces positive emotional ties to them.

Step 6: Feel the Vision

Don’t just look at your board. Feel it.

When you see the picture of your dream home, imagine walking through the front door.

When you see the photo of a smiling couple, imagine what it feels like to be in a fulfilling relationship.

Your brain doesn’t fully distinguish between imagined and real experiences. So if you consistently imagine success, you begin to believe it’s possible — and act accordingly.

Step 7: Stay Patient and Persistent

Vision boards aren’t instant fixes. They’re long-term reinforcement tools.

You won’t manifest a dream job or lose 30 pounds just by looking at pictures. You’ll still need action, discipline and patience.

But your vision board does keep you connected to the bigger picture. When motivation dips or life gets chaotic, it brings you back to your “why.”

Keep it updated. If a goal no longer resonates, replace it. If something has been achieved, celebrate it — and add the next big thing.

Step 8: Take Daily Action

This part matters more than any image.

If you don’t take action, your board is just wallpaper.

Here’s how to link your vision board to real progress:

  • Break each goal into small steps.
  • Schedule weekly or daily tasks that align with the board.
  • Use your board to spot new opportunities and stay inspired.

A vision board keeps your eyes on the prize—but your feet still need to move.

Vision + Action = Progress

A vision board isn’t woo-woo. It’s a mindset tool. It helps you lock in your goals, stay emotionally connected to them and build belief in your ability to achieve them.

But vision alone doesn’t build the life you want. Action does. So use the board to stay focused and aligned — but back it up with consistent effort.

And remember — clarity builds confidence. When you know what you want and see it daily, you stop second-guessing yourself. You start taking bold steps forward.

To talk about any aspect of success or working with a Life Coach to help you to achieve success, you can book a 30-minute call by clicking on the blue button below.

Book the call now button

Don’t try to do all of this by yourself, ask and receive the guidance that can get you moving towards your own success.

Working together can help you overcome personal and professional barriers, ensuring you reach your highest potential.

Nothing happens until action is taken.

To your success.

Michael

Michael W

 

 

 

 

P.S if you want to find out more about my programs just check out the site Confidence and Life Coaching

P.P.S. If you enjoy reading these articles on my blog, I have more books that have more of this type of information that you can find out more about at Books to Read. You can buy these ebooks at many on-line book stores. The links to the bookstores are at the link above.

P.P.P.S. You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

P.P.P.P.S. If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program

 

 

 

 

Photo by Jovan Vasiljević on Unsplash

Why Living in the Present Matters

~ adminlife

present moment

 

In today’s fast-paced world, the mind is constantly pulled in multiple directions — dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. While reflection and planning are necessary, being stuck in past regrets or future anxieties robs you of the peace and joy found in the present moment.

Before you can start to plan your success goals, there are many things that you need to understand before you can be sure that the goals you set are really the ones you want.

One of those things is to determine if there are any Limiting Beliefs that can stop you from actually achieving those goals.

I have a self-study Limiting Belief Program that you can go through to determine what your Limiting Beliefs are and how you can remove them.

You can read more and register for the program at Limiting Beliefs Program on my Confidence and Life Coaching website.

Start your journey on your path to success by identifying and removing your Limiting Beliefs so that you make the journey a lot easier.

You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program.

Mindfulness, or present moment awareness, allows you to experience life as it unfolds. It reduces stress, improves focus and enhances overall well-being. But staying in the present isn’t always easy. The mind naturally drifts, and mastering mindfulness takes time and effort. However, with consistent practice, you can train your brain to stay engaged in the now.

The Challenge of Staying Present

If you’ve ever tried to focus solely on the present moment, you’ve likely noticed how difficult it can be. Your thoughts wander — to past conversations, future tasks or random worries. This is normal. The mind resists stillness, preferring to jump between thoughts.

The key to success is to acknowledge these distractions without frustration. Instead of being discouraged when your mind wanders, see it as an opportunity to bring your focus back to the present.

Practical Ways to Stay in the Present Moment

1. Meditation: Your Foundation for Mindfulness

Meditation is one of the most powerful tools for developing present moment awareness. It trains the brain to stay focused and teaches you to observe thoughts without getting lost in them.

  • Start small: Begin with 5–10 minutes of meditation daily.
  • Find a quiet space: Sit comfortably, close your eyes and focus on your breath.
  • Let go of distractions: When your mind wanders, gently return your focus to your breathing.

Over time, meditation strengthens your ability to stay present, helping you carry mindfulness into everyday life.

2. Making Time for Yourself

One of the biggest obstacles to mindfulness is not prioritizing yourself. Many people feel guilty about taking personal time, but making space for mindfulness is essential for mental clarity and overall well-being.

  • Schedule mindfulness practice: Set aside time each day for meditation, deep breathing or simply sitting in stillness.
  • Say no to distractions: Resist the urge to check emails, do chores, or engage in other tasks when you’ve committed to your mindfulness routine.

By treating present moment awareness as a non-negotiable part of your routine, you create a habit that strengthens over time.

3. Practicing Mindfulness in Daily Activities

You don’t need to sit in meditation to practice being present. Everyday activities offer countless opportunities to anchor yourself in the now.

  • Brushing your teeth: Focus on the sensation of the toothbrush against your teeth, the taste of the toothpaste and the rhythm of your brushing.
  • Drinking coffee or tea: Instead of mindlessly sipping, pay attention to the warmth of the cup, the aroma and the flavour.
  • Walking: Notice the feeling of the ground beneath your feet, the movement of your legs and the sounds around you.

These small moments of mindfulness add up, training your brain to stay engaged rather than distracted.

4. Using Breath as an Anchor

Your breath is always with you, making it a perfect tool to bring yourself back to the present. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or lost in thought, take a deep breath and focus on the inhale and exhale.

Try this simple exercise:

  • Breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for four counts.
  • Repeat a few times, paying close attention to each breath.

This technique grounds you in the present moment and calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.

5. Letting Go of Past and Future Worries

While reflecting on the past and planning for the future are important, dwelling too much on either robs you of the present.

  • Learn from the past, but don’t live in it: Acknowledge past experiences, take lessons from them and move forward.
  • Plan for the future, but don’t obsess over it: Set goals and prepare for what’s ahead, but avoid excessive worry about things beyond your control.

When you catch yourself ruminating on the past or stressing over the future, gently redirect your attention to what’s happening right now.

6. Engaging Fully in Conversations

One of the greatest gifts you can give others is your full attention. Being present in conversations not only strengthens relationships but also improves your listening skills.

  • Put away your phone and make eye contact.
  • Listen actively rather than thinking about what you’ll say next.
  • Notice the speaker’s tone, expressions and emotions.

When you’re fully engaged in a conversation, you connect more deeply and build stronger relationships.

7. Accepting the Present as It Is

Not every moment is perfect. Some are joyful, while others are challenging. Mindfulness doesn’t mean forcing positivity — it means accepting each moment as it comes.

  • Instead of resisting discomfort, observe it without judgment.
  • Recognize that thoughts and emotions come and go like waves in the ocean.
  • Trust that whatever happens, you have the ability to handle it.

By accepting the present moment, you free yourself from unnecessary suffering and find peace in what is.

Final Thoughts

Staying present is a skill that takes practice, but the rewards are life-changing. When you make mindfulness a priority, you’ll experience less stress, improved focus and deeper connections with yourself and others.

Instead of letting life pass by in a blur of distractions, slow down, breathe and be here now. Your best life is happening in this very moment — embrace it.

To talk about any aspect of success or working with a Life Coach to help you to achieve success, you can book a 30-minute call by clicking on the blue button below.

Book the call now button

Don’t try to do all of this by yourself, ask and receive the guidance that can get you moving towards your own success.

Working together can help you overcome personal and professional barriers, ensuring you reach your highest potential.

Nothing happens until action is taken.

To your success.

Michael

Michael W

 

 

 

 

P.S if you want to find out more about my programs just check out the site Confidence and Life Coaching

P.P.S. If you enjoy reading these articles on my blog, I have more books that have more of this type of information that you can find out more about at Books to Read. You can buy these ebooks at many on-line book stores. The links to the bookstores are at the link above.

P.P.P.S. You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

P.P.P.P.S. If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program

 

 

 

Photo by Ezgi Deliklitas on Unsplash

Build a Stronger Self to Quiet Negativity

~ adminlife

negativity

 

Negative thoughts can quietly erode your self-esteem, confidence and ability to move forward in life. They often come from a shaky sense of identity — when you’re unsure of who you are, what you stand for or what matters to you. Strengthening your sense of self isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about reconnecting with who you already are.

Before you can start to plan your success goals, there are many things that you need to understand before you can be sure that the goals you set are really the ones you want.

One of those things is to determine if there are any Limiting Beliefs that can stop you from actually achieving those goals.

I have a self-study Limiting Belief Program that you can go through to determine what your Limiting Beliefs are and how you can remove them.

You can read more and register for the program at Limiting Beliefs Program on my Confidence and Life Coaching website.

Start your journey on your path to success by identifying and removing your Limiting Beliefs so that you make the journey a lot easier.

You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program.

This article walks through practical, real-world strategies to help you clarify your values, set boundaries, make better choices and create a healthier internal dialogue. The goal is simple: develop a more grounded, confident self so you can push back on the negative thoughts that hold you back.

Why Your Sense of Self Matters

Your sense of self is your internal foundation. It shapes how you make decisions, how you treat yourself and how you interact with others. When your self-identity is strong, you’re more likely to:

  • Set clear goals
  • Make decisions that align with your values
  • Bounce back from failure
  • Feel confident in your skin

But when your sense of self is fragile, you may find yourself overly influenced by others, anxious about your decisions or trapped in cycles of negative self-talk. This is why it’s crucial to know who you are, what matters to you, and how to stand firm in it.

1. Get Clear on Your Values

Values aren’t abstract buzzwords. They’re deeply personal beliefs that define how you want to live. They inform your priorities, decisions and relationships. The problem is, many people haven’t taken the time to identify what their values actually are.

Ask yourself:

  • What traits do I admire in others?
  • What behaviours make me feel proud?
  • When do I feel most fulfilled?

You might discover values like honesty, curiosity, family, freedom or compassion. Once you’ve identified them, write them down. Seeing them on paper makes them more real — and more actionable. These values become your personal compass, helping you steer through tough decisions and avoid self-doubt.

Action Tip:

Create a “Top 5 Values” list and place it somewhere visible — your desk, your phone’s lock screen or inside your planner.

2. Make Decisions That Reflect You

Too often, people live on autopilot — saying yes to things out of guilt, going along with the crowd or doing what’s expected. But every time you ignore your gut or neglect your needs, your sense of self takes a hit.

Start practising assertiveness. This doesn’t mean being aggressive or selfish. It means honouring your own voice. It’s okay to choose what’s best for you, even if it disappoints someone else.

For example:

  • If you’re an introvert, it’s fine to skip social events that drain you.
  • If you value creativity, make time for hobbies even if they don’t earn money.
  • If you need rest, say no without apology.

Owning your choices — big or small — builds trust with yourself.

Action Tip:

Next time you’re asked to do something, pause. Ask: Do I want to do this, or do I feel like I have to?

3. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

Boundaries are not walls. They’re guidelines that protect your energy, time and mental well-being. People with a weak sense of self often say yes when they mean no, take on too much or tolerate behaviour that makes them uncomfortable.

A boundary can be as simple as:

  • Not answering work emails after 6 p.m.
  • Telling someone you need 24 hours to think before making a decision
  • Refusing to engage in gossip or negativity

Setting boundaries isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. When you protect your limits, you reinforce that your needs matter. This deepens your self-respect, which is a core part of confidence.

Action Tip:

Write down one area of your life where you feel overextended. What’s one boundary you can set this week to protect your time or energy?

4. Reframe Your Self-Talk

You are with yourself 100% of the time, and how you talk to yourself matters more than you think. Negative thoughts are sneaky — they can sound like facts when they’re just fears.

Here are some common examples:

  • “I always mess things up.”
  • “I’m not as good as them.”
  • “I’ll never succeed.”

These thoughts don’t define you. They reflect doubt, not truth. One powerful way to counter them is through positive affirmations. But not the cheesy kind that feel fake. Affirmations work best when they’re grounded in something real.

Try:

  • “I’m learning and improving every day.”
  • “I’ve handled challenges before, and I can do it again.”
  • “I bring value to what I do.”

Say them daily — even if you don’t fully believe them yet. Over time, your brain starts to adjust.

Action Tip:

Write 3 affirmations that reflect your strengths or values. Repeat them out loud each morning for one week.

5. Stop Chasing Perfection

Many negative thoughts come from unrealistic standards. You compare yourself to others, beat yourself up over mistakes and feel like you’re never enough. But perfectionism is a moving target — you never really get there.

Instead, focus on progress. Every time you take a small step to honour your values or speak your truth, you’re reinforcing your identity.

  • Did you say no when you usually would’ve said yes?
  • Did you spend 30 minutes on a creative passion?
  • Did you pause to challenge a critical thought?

That’s real growth. Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect. It comes from consistently showing up as yourself, flaws and all.

Self-Discovery Is a Daily Practice

You don’t build a strong sense of self in a week. It’s a lifelong practice of checking in with yourself, making intentional choices and refusing to let negative thoughts call the shots.

The more you act in alignment with your values, speak up for your needs and treat yourself with respect, the stronger your internal foundation becomes. That foundation is what helps you handle challenges, set boundaries and build a life that actually feels like yours.

To talk about any aspect of success or working with a Life Coach to help you to achieve success, you can book a 30-minute call by clicking on the blue button below.

Book the call now button

Don’t try to do all of this by yourself, ask and receive the guidance that can get you moving towards your own success.

Working together can help you overcome personal and professional barriers, ensuring you reach your highest potential.

Nothing happens until action is taken.

To your success.

Michael

Michael W

 

 

 

 

P.S if you want to find out more about my programs just check out the site Confidence and Life Coaching

P.P.S. If you enjoy reading these articles on my blog, I have more books that have more of this type of information that you can find out more about at Books to Read. You can buy these ebooks at many on-line book stores. The links to the bookstores are at the link above.

P.P.P.S. You can download a free PDF containing five articles on Limiting Beliefs and how to overcome them and achieve things in your career and personal life. 

The PDF can be downloaded here (and you don’t have to register or provide an email address) Limiting Beliefs Download

Download the file and go over the other material that you can find on the Confidence and Life Coaching website.

P.P.P.P.S. If you are ready to move even further into the process of Identifying and removing and replacing your Limiting Beliefs, you should consider my short Limiting Belief’s Coaching Program

 

 

 

 

Photo by Trang TRIEU on Unsplash

Seven Powerful Ways to Boost Self-Esteem

~ adminlife

bag of books

 

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in shaping our happiness, success and overall well-being. When our self-esteem is low, we become more susceptible to self-doubt, anxiety and even depression. On the other hand, when we cultivate a strong sense of self-worth, we are more confident in our abilities, more resilient in the face of challenges and more open to opportunities.

Confidence in your abilities to go after your goals can sometimes be difficult to find or keep.

It can sometimes take time to discover the confidence you have inside you. This can be especially true if you are trying something new.

I have a program that can help you to discover what is holding you back from achieving your goals as well as help you set an attainable goal related to where you are in your life and where you are trying to be.

This program also works with you to build up your confidence in being able to reach your goal.

You can find out more about this program at Confidology, a funny name but a serious program.

You can contact me to talk about this or any other aspect of confidence and success at michael@coachmichaelw.com

Visit the site and read through the program description.

If you are not ready to commit to a full program, I have a self-paced course on Udemy that may be of interest. You can find out about the course and register at Confidence and Motivation Development and Maintenance

Many people recognize the importance of self-esteem but struggle with how to improve it. Fortunately, self-esteem is not something we are simply born with — it can be developed and strengthened with the right mindset and habits. In this article, we explore seven powerful ways to boost self-esteem and create a healthier, more positive self-image.

1. Play to Your Strengths

One of the best ways to improve self-esteem is to focus on your strengths rather than dwelling on perceived weaknesses. Too often, we define ourselves by what we lack — whether it’s a certain body type, a specific career or financial stability. However, these external factors do not define who we truly are.

How to Identify and Leverage Your Strengths:

  • Make a List of Your Strengths: Write down all your talents, skills and positive qualities. If you’re struggling, ask trusted friends or family members for their perspective.
  • Recognize What Makes You Unique: What sets you apart? Are you compassionate, creative or a great problem solver? Embrace these qualities and use them to your advantage.
  • Engage in Activities That Make You Feel Strong: Do things that highlight your abilities, whether it’s mentoring someone, painting, writing or excelling in a sport.

By shifting your focus from what you lack to what you excel at, you build confidence and reinforce your self-worth.

2. Lay Down Your Burdens

Negative thoughts and worries can consume us, making our problems feel larger than they really are. Holding onto self-doubt and insecurities prevents us from moving forward.

How to Release Negativity:

  • Write It Down: Spend a few minutes each day writing out your worries, fears or self-critical thoughts. Once they’re on paper, they often lose their grip on your mind.
  • Let It Go: Imagine placing your burdens into a box and setting them aside. This mental exercise can help create emotional distance from negative thoughts.
  • Challenge Negative Beliefs: Ask yourself if these thoughts are facts or just assumptions. Often, self-doubt is rooted in unfounded fears.

Practising these techniques regularly will help you free yourself from unnecessary emotional weight and make room for positive self-beliefs.

3. Be True to Yourself

Many people struggle with self-esteem because they try to live up to the expectations of others rather than pursuing what truly makes them happy. Whether it’s societal pressures, family expectations or the opinions of friends, allowing others to dictate your path can lead to frustration and self-doubt.

How to Stay True to Your Own Goals:

  • Define Your Own Success: What do you really want in life? Base your goals on your passions and interests, not what others think is best for you.
  • Set Personal Goals: Instead of following someone else’s dream, pursue what excites you. When you achieve personal milestones, your confidence will grow.
  • Trust Your Instincts: You are the best judge of your own happiness. Make choices based on your values and desires, not external pressures.

By being authentic and aligning your life with your true self, you will build genuine self-esteem rather than seeking validation from others.

4. Become a Positive Person

The way we think and speak about ourselves and others has a profound impact on our self-esteem. Negative thoughts and words reinforce low self-worth, while positive reinforcement strengthens confidence.

How to Cultivate Positivity:

  • Practice Gratitude: Focus on what’s going well in your life rather than what’s lacking.
  • Pass on Compliments: If you hear something positive about someone, share it with them. Lifting others up creates a cycle of positivity that benefits both parties.
  • Speak Kindly About Yourself: Instead of criticizing yourself, practice affirmations such as “I am capable,” “I am worthy,” and “I deserve happiness.”

When you focus on the positive, you naturally develop a healthier self-image.

5. Take Risks and Try New Things

Confidence grows when we step outside our comfort zone. The more we challenge ourselves, the more we realize what we are capable of.

How to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone:

  • Learn a New Skill: Take up a hobby, enrol in a class or try something unfamiliar. Every new skill strengthens self-confidence.
  • Face Your Fears: If you’re afraid of public speaking, practice in front of a small group. If you fear rejection, start small by initiating conversations.
  • Celebrate Every Effort: Even if you don’t succeed on the first try, recognize that taking action is an accomplishment in itself.

Risk-taking fosters resilience, and with each new challenge, self-esteem naturally grows.

6. Discount Negative Influences

Many of our negative self-perceptions come from external influences — society, the media or even people close to us. It’s crucial to filter out negativity and focus on sources that uplift and empower.

How to Protect Your Self-Esteem from Negativity:

  • Be Selective About Your Social Circle: Surround yourself with supportive, positive people who encourage your growth.
  • Limit Exposure to Harmful Media: Advertisements and social media often promote unrealistic ideals. Remember that these images are often curated and edited.
  • Reject Harmful Opinions: Just because someone says something negative about you doesn’t make it true. Base your self-worth on your own beliefs, not others’ judgments.

Taking control of what influences you can significantly improve your self-esteem and mental well-being.

7. Take Small Steps Toward Growth

Improving self-esteem is a process, and small achievements can lead to big transformations. Each step forward reinforces a sense of competence and confidence.

How to Build Self-Esteem Gradually:

  • Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of overwhelming yourself with big changes, focus on small wins.
  • Acknowledge Progress: Even minor improvements are worth celebrating.
  • Be Patient with Yourself: Growth takes time. Keep moving forward, even if progress feels slow.

By consistently taking small steps, you create a strong foundation for lasting self-esteem.

Conclusion

Self-esteem is not built overnight, but with consistent effort and the right mindset, it can be improved. By focusing on your strengths, letting go of negativity, being true to yourself, fostering positivity, taking risks, filtering out negative influences and making gradual progress, you can develop unshakable self-worth.

Start applying these seven strategies today, and watch your confidence and happiness grow.

To talk about any aspect of success or working with a Life Coach to help you to achieve success, you can book a 30-minute call by clicking on the blue button below.

Book the call now button

Don’t try to do all of this by yourself, ask and receive the guidance that can get you moving towards your own success.

Working together can help you overcome personal and professional barriers, ensuring you reach your highest potential.

Nothing happens until action is taken.

To your success.

Michael

Michael W

 

 

 

 

P.S Don’t forget to visit Confidology to learn more about the program. If you are not ready to commit to a full program, I have a self-paced course on Udemy that may be of interest. You can find out about the course and register at Confidence and Motivation Development and Maintenance

P.P.S if you want to find out more about my programs just check out the site Confidence and Life Coaching

P.P.P.S. If you enjoy reading these articles on my blog, I have more books that have more of this type of information that you can find out more about at Books to Read. You can buy these ebooks at many on-line book stores. The links to the bookstores are at the link above.

 

 

 

Photo by Shiromani Kant on Unsplash

Building a Growth Mindset for Lasting Success

~ adminlife

growth mindset

 

Developing a growth mindset is one of the most valuable habits you can cultivate. It shapes the way you approach challenges, setbacks and opportunities for learning. Rather than focusing on eliminating bad habits, consider the benefits of actively fostering a mindset that encourages continuous self-improvement.

Confidence in your abilities to go after your goals can sometimes be difficult to find or keep.

It can sometimes take time to discover the confidence you have inside you. This can be especially true if you are trying something new.

I have a program that can help you to discover what is holding you back from achieving your goals as well as help you set an attainable goal related to where you are in your life and where you are trying to be.

This program also works with you to build up your confidence in being able to reach your goal.

You can find out more about this program at Confidology, a funny name but a serious program.

You can contact me to talk about this or any other aspect of confidence and success at michael@coachmichaelw.com

Visit the site and read through the program description.

If you are not ready to commit to a full program, I have a self-paced course on Udemy that may be of interest. You can find out about the course and register at Confidence and Motivation Development and Maintenance

A growth mindset — the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning — transforms how you experience life. It fosters resilience, curiosity and the ability to embrace challenges rather than fear them. In this article, we’ll explore why a growth mindset is crucial, how it benefits various aspects of your life and practical ways to develop it.

The Power of a Growth Mindset

Your mindset influences how you perceive success, failure and personal development. People with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are static and unchangeable, leading them to avoid challenges and fear failure. In contrast, those with a growth mindset understand that improvement comes through effort, persistence and learning from mistakes.

The difference is profound: individuals with a growth mindset see failures as learning opportunities rather than personal shortcomings. They embrace new experiences, welcome feedback and constantly seek ways to improve.

Key Benefits of Developing a Growth Mindset

1. Lifelong Learning Keeps You Sharp

Adopting a growth mindset means valuing continuous learning. Learning isn’t just about acquiring new knowledge — it rewires your brain, helping you develop new ways of thinking and problem-solving.

  • People who continue learning throughout their lives remain mentally agile.
  • Studies show that engaging in new learning experiences can help delay cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia.
  • Learning keeps you connected to new ideas, perspectives and innovations, making life more interesting and fulfilling.

When you make lifelong learning a habit, you’re not just gaining skills — you’re keeping your brain healthy and adaptable.

2. Perseverance and Resilience Grow Stronger

A growth mindset teaches you that obstacles aren’t dead ends; they’re learning experiences. When you approach problems with a willingness to adapt and persist, you develop resilience.

  • You begin to see multiple solutions to problems instead of feeling stuck.
  • You become more confident in handling setbacks.
  • You stop fearing failure and instead see it as part of the learning process.

When you embrace perseverance, challenges become stepping stones to success rather than roadblocks.

3. Challenges Become Opportunities

People with a fixed mindset avoid challenges because they fear failure. Those with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to grow.

  • Struggling through something new forces you to stretch your abilities.
  • Overcoming difficulties builds confidence in your ability to succeed.
  • Viewing challenges as learning experiences reduces anxiety and increases motivation.

By reframing difficulties as growth opportunities, you build confidence and develop the skills needed to tackle even greater challenges.

4. Failure Becomes a Teacher, Not an Enemy

One of the biggest transformations that come with a growth mindset is the ability to embrace failure rather than fear it.

  • Instead of seeing failure as proof of inadequacy, you recognize it as feedback.
  • Every mistake provides insight into what doesn’t work, guiding you toward better strategies.
  • The most successful people have failed many times but used those failures as stepping stones to improvement.

Shifting your perspective on failure allows you to take risks, try new things and ultimately achieve more than you thought possible.

5. Constructive Criticism Fuels Improvement

Feedback can be hard to hear, but with a growth mindset, it becomes a tool for progress. When you stop seeing criticism as a personal attack and start viewing it as valuable insight, you unlock new levels of self-improvement.

  • Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for growth.
  • Learning from feedback makes you more adaptable and open-minded.
  • Accepting criticism with a growth mindset builds confidence instead of insecurity.

Rather than resisting feedback, welcome it as an opportunity to grow into the best version of yourself.

How to Develop a Growth Mindset

Building a growth mindset isn’t an overnight transformation — it’s a practice. Here’s how you can start:

1. Reframe Challenges as Learning Experiences

Instead of seeing challenges as threats, shift your perspective to view them as opportunities to grow. Ask yourself:

  • What can I learn from this situation?
  • How can I improve next time?
  • What new skills can I develop through this challenge?

2. Replace Negative Self-Talk with Growth-Focused Thinking

Your inner dialogue shapes your mindset. Instead of saying, “I’m not good at this,” shift to “I’m still learning and improving.”

  • Replace “I failed” with “I learned something new.”
  • Swap “This is too hard” with “This will help me grow.”

3. Embrace Effort and Persistence

Recognize that progress takes time. Even when something feels difficult, remind yourself that consistent effort leads to growth.

  • Break tasks into smaller steps.
  • Celebrate progress, not just results.
  • Keep pushing forward, even when improvement feels slow.

4. Seek Feedback and Apply It

Instead of avoiding feedback, actively seek it out. Ask mentors, colleagues, and friends for insights on how you can improve.

  • Apply constructive criticism rather than taking it personally.
  • Use feedback as a tool for refining your skills.

5. Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded People

The people around you influence your mindset. Surround yourself with those who encourage learning, challenge you to improve, and support your growth.

  • Engage in discussions that spark new ideas.
  • Learn from people who embrace challenges and innovation.
  • Avoid negativity that reinforces a fixed mindset.

Final Thoughts

Developing a growth mindset transforms your life. It allows you to embrace challenges, persevere through setbacks and continuously improve. By shifting your perspective on learning, failure and effort, you unlock your full potential.

The journey to self-improvement never ends — but that’s the beauty of it. Each challenge you face is an opportunity to grow, and every failure brings a new lesson. Keep pushing yourself, stay curious and remember: growth is a lifelong adventure.

To talk about any aspect of success or working with a Life Coach to help you to achieve success, you can book a 30-minute call by clicking on the blue button below.

Book the call now button

Don’t try to do all of this by yourself, ask and receive the guidance that can get you moving towards your own success.

Working together can help you overcome personal and professional barriers, ensuring you reach your highest potential.

Nothing happens until action is taken.

To your success.

Michael

Michael W

 

 

 

 

P.S Don’t forget to visit Confidology to learn more about the program. If you are not ready to commit to a full program, I have a self-paced course on Udemy that may be of interest. You can find out about the course and register at Confidence and Motivation Development and Maintenance

P.P.S if you want to find out more about my programs just check out the site Confidence and Life Coaching

P.P.P.S. If you enjoy reading these articles on my blog, I have more books that have more of this type of information that you can find out more about at Books to Read. You can buy these ebooks at many on-line book stores. The links to the bookstores are at the link above.

 

 

 

Photo by Hayley Murray on Unsplash