Triptii Dimri says she ‘didn’t even know how to interact with people’ when she arrived in Mumbai

“I think facing the camera, knowing that there are a hundred other people in front of you auditioning for the same job, fills you up with a different kind of energy. Day in and day out, we would just be reading lines and getting our pictures taken. You wake up, you go for auditions, you come back, and then you repeat it all over again. If you were lucky, you would get selected for two of those, or maybe one in a year. Aram Nagar was basically my second home. That taught me a lot, and I was lucky because I kept meeting the right people who guided me in the right direction,” she added.

 

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Building confidence, like Triptii has shown, is a gradual process that requires self-awareness, consistent effort, and compassion towards oneself. According to Arouba Kabir, emotional and mental health professional, and founder of Enso Wellness, confidence is not about never feeling unsure—it’s about learning to manage those feelings and push forward. Here’s how she suggests doing that:

Set small, realistic goals

Start by identifying specific areas where you feel underconfident. Is it your communication skills, the way you present yourself, or even something as specific as your makeup skills? Once you’ve pinpointed the issue, set small, achievable goals that can help you improve gradually, Kabir said. For example, if you feel underconfident about public speaking, begin by practising in front of a mirror or a small, supportive group. By achieving these small goals, you build up your confidence in manageable steps.

Develop relevant skills

Confidence often comes from competence. If you’re lacking in a particular skill, take steps to improve it. Whether it’s through workshops, classes, or self-practice, developing the necessary skills in your area of interest can significantly boost your confidence. This might involve social skills, professional skills, or even creative talents. Investing time in learning will make you feel more prepared and capable in those situations.

Seek constructive feedback

Receiving feedback is crucial for growth. Kabir emphasises the importance of asking for constructive criticism from trusted individuals. Feedback can offer insights into areas where you can improve, and when it’s constructive, it helps you adjust and refine your approach without damaging your self-esteem.

Practice self-compassion

It’s essential to be kind to yourself during this journey. Kabir stresses the importance of self-compassion and recognising even small achievements. If you attempt something new and don’t excel immediately, remind yourself that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Celebrate the fact that you took a step outside your comfort zone, even if the results weren’t perfect. Positive self-talk is key; instead of saying “I’m not good at this,” shift to “I’m still learning, and I will get better.”

Building confidence is a step-by-step process that involves setting realistic goals, improving skills, seeking feedback, practising self-compassion, and maintaining a positive outlook. By focusing on incremental progress and learning to appreciate your efforts, you can gradually enhance your confidence in any area of life.