Boost Yoself!

Having low self-confidence is a major obstacle in life. So, when you don’t believe in yourself, then it’s harder for others to believe in you. Sometimes you’ve got to be your own unicorn cheerleader!

Going for a job interview? If you are not confident that you’ll be able to do a good job, it can affect your chances of getting the gig. Want to ask that sexy guy out on a date?

If you don’t believe that you’re good enough for him, then he probably won’t think so either. Here are some tips on how to boost yourself healthily to get closer to being able to get the things that you want in life:

– Avoid negative and critical people. It can be funny to listen to guys throwing shade (being critical) about others, but it’s only a matter of time before they throw that shade at you and that can be like being crushed under a gazebo, gurl! Surround yourself with people that build you up and not people that break you or other people down. That negative energy can kill your self-esteem. Detox your crew. (Anyway, crumpled bitchface causes wrinkles.)

– Don’t diss others either. Don’t waste your time criticising or talking crap about others; it just smears you with the same stinky brush (even if it is true). If you focus on negative things, then you will get more negative things. Focus on positive things and positive people, and then that’s what you’ll get more of. Encourage other, and they’ll encourage you. Bitchy guys are funny but nobody trusts them.

– Get fitter. You don’t need to have a gym contract. There’s loads of free info on the net on how you can do simple exercises in the comfort of your own home (Google callisthenics). It’ll make you feel better about yourself, and the regular rush of endorphins from the exercise is a natural high. It’s not about looking like a fitness model, but about loving yourself enough to take care of your body.

– Improve yourself. Read articles about things that will keep you informed and empowered (like the articles on www.wethebrave.co.za). Listen to the news and try and get to grips with current affairs. Being knowledgeable can help you build your confidence. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn new things. Even Einstein had to ask questions.

– Take it easy on yourself. It’s trending to be hard on yourself and put yourself down. This is the last thing you should do. Every small thing you do to improve yourself and your life is a step closer to your goals.

– Know your status. Get yourself to your doctor or nearest gay-friendly Health4Men clinic and screen for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. You will be in a more empowered place with this knowledge, no matter what result you get. Check out www.yellowdotdoctor.co.za to find a doctor that’s heard it ALL before.

– If you’re HIV-negative and have an active sex life, ask your doctor or clinician about the possibility of going onto PrEP, and to discover other combination prevention ways to make sure you stay HIV-negative such as serosorting or seropostioning.

– If you’re HIV-positive, start a disciplined ARV treatment regimen so that you can keep yourself strong and healthy and discover other ways to live your best life as a confident and healthy man. Remember, if your viral load is undetectable, you can’t pass it on!

Bruce J. Little is the Content Creator for Anova Health Institute.