4 TIPS TO FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WHEN LIVING WITH RA
Living with rheumatoid arthritis may affect your confidence. If you have struggled with confidence, you are certainly not alone. But those feelings don’t have to define you. Here are a few ways to step out socially, feel comfortable, and be yourself.
REMEMBER TO BREATHE.
Feeling nervous? Simply take a deep breath for a count of four, hold it for another count of four, and then exhale for a count of eight. You’ll be surprised at how much calmer you feel, instantly.
STAND UP STRAIGHT.
Simply standing in a strong position can help you start to feel more confident. Keep your arms uncrossed, your shoulders steady, and your feet planted firmly where you’re standing. This pose can have a powerful effect on how you present yourself.
STAY PRESENT, AND ASK QUESTIONS.
Whether you’re talking to a loved one or someone new, a little active listening can go a long way to make a strong connection in a conversation.
DON’T HIDE WHO YOU ARE.
Feel free to share as much of your experience as is comfortable. You might find that the more you open up, the more you may come across stories that are similar to your own.