"Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye." ~ Helen Keller
To excel in life, to have a belief in one’s abilities is always necessary. Other’s confidence in oneself can never be a competition to self confidence. There are many examples of great personalities in whom people didn’t have trust but they achieved their goal on their own. This article talks about self esteem, confidence and particularly in a student.
Self concept is defined as the totality of perceptions each person has of themselves. According to studies in Psychology, between the age of 3-12, the self concepts are based on developing talents and skills. Social comparison starts at the age of schooling i.e. between the age of 5-6. Self image starts to take place which is ever-changing and dynamic. Here comes the main part of how a student's environment and his/her personality helps to form the self image.
Here are some of the tips to boost a student’s confidence in the classroom.
1. Ask the reason behind their inactiveness or passive behaviour-
To find solution on a problem always requires understanding of it’s root. Students often tend to be inactive due to fear of judgement by classmates or professors or other personal reasons regarding family, health issues, etc. Let’s create a secure space for them to express themselves.
2. SWOT Analysis-
It’s always better to know oneself. Here SWOT analysis comes for help i.e. strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats. Students must list out their strengths and weaknesses first. Eg. Few students may happen to be introverts or few may be extroverts. Both of them have different sets of traits and likings. Hence, it’s necessary to think over opportunities and possible threats too before making any decision for them.
3. Encourage ‘Step-by-step’-
It’s necessary to understand them during this whole process. Boosting someone's confidence takes time. First, student must be asked to be active during class. Specific questions that he/she can answer during lecture can be asked. Then, small competitions or open mic can be held for students in class where they can participate or perform. Hence, we can go step-by-step.
4. Always let them know that they are worth it whenever they feel unconfident-
To support students in their down moment is very important. They must be able to count on their professors, family or friends in such times.
5. Ask for help from counsellor-
If a student is still not responding even after the efforts taken then without hesitation and further waiting, it is a must to approach a school or child counsellor. Getting professional help from a professional is always better in such situations.
In conclusion, boosting confidence expects effort from both sides. To become a better version of ourselves is a choice and wish which everyone has, but it takes that much effort too. It asks for our patience, understanding and trust.