For so many of us, constant self-doubt and second guessing is as mentally draining as it is limiting. And while overcoming these feelings can seem like an uphill battle, taking steps towards building confidence is life changing.
The strength that comes with confidence is a powerful driving force towards positive change. Whether it’s nailing a job interview or starting a community library that will work, confidence is key.
But as many of us have inevitably found out, building confidence isn’t easy for everyone.
Finding the best way to building confidence is as personal and varied as the reason for the lack of in the first place. You might find going to the gym, online studying or meditation helps to build your self-esteem – or it might be a combination of things. It’s about finding what works best for you.
At the Community Impact Initiative (Cii), we are committed to providing a space where individuals can
improve their confidence and make a positive change in their community. Why?
Confidence Matters: Beyond Mirror Pep Talks
Confidence is a quality most of us wish we had by the tonne. It’s what makes public speaking feel less nightmare-ish and more like an exciting opportunity. But beyond the occasional self-affirmation at the bathroom mirror, healthy confidence is crucial to shaping how we interact with the outside world.
When people are self-assured, they’re more likely to take risks, embrace new challenges, and innovate. And this ripple effect doesn’t just stop at the individual level; it spreads throughout communities, creating an environment where collective confidence drives social change, economic growth, and even make social interaction more enjoyable for everyone.
The Impact of a Confident Community
Imagine a community where everyone walks around with unbridled confidence. Not only does this inspire a more dynamic society, but it also an atmosphere where support and encouragement are the norm.
Individuals with the confidence to be more proactive willing to lend a hand to those around them, creating a positive feedback loop: as people help each other succeed, the entire community becomes more resilient and cohesive.
Empowering Through Cii Projects
So, how do we empower people to engage in confidence building? By creating a service where individuals can meet new people, learn and take positive steps, both for themselves and the communities they come from.
How exactly does engaging in a Cii project impact on a person’s confidence?
Career Development and Education
Knowledge and experience naturally boosts confidence, personally and professionally. Our career development and education initiatives prioritise an individual’s progression whether they are looking to learn new skills, or by pursing a career in construction.
Facilitating career development and education includes:
Job Search and Employment Support
Securing a job isn’t easy, and with seeds of self-doubt, saturated markets and fears of potential rejection, it can be an daunting prospect.
But our project participants can expect our absolute support throughout the job application process, including:
Learn more about Business Wales opportunities here.
Basic Needs and Support Services
Lack of stability and security around basic needs such as reliable housing and access to food can create a constant sense of uncertainty. This in turn can make it difficult to focus on personal growth, pursue education, or seek employment opportunities.
Addressing these basic needs is crucial, as it lays the foundation for building confidence and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential, during the projects and thereafter. How do we achieve this?
Shelter Cymru is a registered charity that provides support and advocacy to people in housing need. Learn more about Shelter Cymru here.
Health and Wellbeing
Our overall mental and physical health significantly impacts our self-esteem, and vice versa often creating a cycle that is difficult to control. Supporting individuals to prioritise their wellbeing empowers them to improve and maintain a sense of confidence. This support involves:
Building confidence isn’t easy, and beyond individual growth it can also involve creating a supportive community where everyone can thrive. By providing bespoke opportunities, we empower individuals to address self-doubt and realise their full potential. And the ripple effect extends beyond personal success, to create stronger, more resilient communities.
Want to read more about the impact of Cii projects? Click below to access real stories from our participants and keep up to date on our blog page.
