Confidence can help you reach your goals. But where does confidence come from — and how can you get more of it? Here are 3 quick tips to boost your confidence…in TED-Ed GIFs:\

Tip #1: Try a quick fix. There are a few tips that can give you an immediate confidence boost. Our favorites: Picture your success when you’re beginning a difficult task. Strike a powerful pose for five minutes before a challenge. And listen to music with deep bass, which can promote feelings of power. To learn more about some of the research behind these ideas, watch Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk on body language and Emily Balcetis’ TED Talk on motivation.

Tip #2: Believe in your ability to improve. Do you believe that your abilities and talents are fixed at birth, like your eye color? Or that can they be developed — like your muscles? Researcher Carol Dweck defines these beliefs as the “fixed mindset” and the “growth mindset.” With a fixed mindset, you may be more likely to give up after an early setback — thinking that you’ve discovered something that you’re not very good at. But with a growth mindset, a challenge can be an opportunity to learn and improve. The truth is, the connections in your brain will get stronger and grow with study and practice. To learn how to change a fixed mindset into a growth mindset, check out this TED-Ed Select.

Tip#3: Practice failure. Face it: you’re going to fail sometimes. Everyone does. Studies show that those who fail regularly and keep trying anyway are better equipped to respond to challenges and setbacks in a constructive way. They learn to try different strategies, ask others for advice, and persevere. Need a little inspiration to move forward? Watch this TED Talk from Sarah Lewis on how to embrace the near win.

So, think of a challenge you want to take on — and go for it. The world needs your confidence!

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