There are two types of people heading off to university in September. There's the ones who spend most of summer with their bags already packed, eagerly awaiting moving day to arrive. Then there are those who spend the summer feeling anxious and worried about the life changes ahead of them. For those that are feeling the nerves because of all the impending lifestyle changes, we’re here to help you build confidence ahead of the university move.
Think about these tips and tricks when it comes to finding your feet in your new environment.
1. Think Positively
It may seem like a simple concept, but looking at things in a positive way will ultimately help you feel more positive. So every time a negative thought creeps in (‘I’m going to do badly in exams’) replace with a positive (‘I will work hard to revise and do the best of my ability in exams’).
This positive reinforcement will help build up your self-esteem. Say no to negative self-talk, as this will only bring your confidence levels down.
2. Sign Up to Clubs & Societies
If one of your biggest pre-uni fears is not being able to make friends, then put yourself out there and actively search for like-minded people with similar hobbies and interests. Visit your uni’s freshers' fair and sign up to any societies that interest you. Often these clubs and societies will have regular meet-ups outside of any activities, so it’s a great way to make friends.
3. Set Small Goals When Speaking to a New Person
There is no quick fix to building confidence and therefore there’s room for constant improvement and development. Instead of setting yourself a big overarching goal of ‘be more confident’, set yourself mini goals to achieve this.
So, for social butterfly status start off small by approaching the student in the bedroom next door to you. Then once you have ticked off this goal, mentally celebrate this achievement before moving on to another goal like inviting this new friend for a coffee in the kitchen.
Having trouble sparking up a conversation with your neighbour? One of the best ways is to find a common interest, so if you've heard a familiar band blasting from their speakers or spotted them in your lecture hall then start with these safe topics. Alternatively, asking a question is another easy way of starting a conversation. And just remember, in those first few days/weeks everyone is in the same boat so get set to hear a lot of 'what are you studying?' and 'where are you from?' questions flying about.
4. Stay True To Yourself
Always be true to yourself and never do something for the sake of appearances. So, if you’re a massive hockey fan, then it makes perfect sense to join the society. But if you’re not, then don’t spend a term listening to hockey talk and googling ‘hockey fouls.’ Most universities will have clubs and societies suitable for a wide range of interests from sport to music, book clubs and more - so find something that best suits you!
Do MORE of what makes you HAPPY! Uni is an amazing place to find friends and create memories for life. So, take your time to find your feet, get involved and remember you'll only have this experience once... so make the most of it.
For more wellbeing advice, watch our video with expert Clare Dimond below...
Home » Fresher’s Week: How To Build Confidence
Fresher’s Week: How To Build Confidence
Home » Fresher’s Week: How To Build Confidence
There are two types of people heading off to university in September. There's the ones who spend most of summer with their bags already packed, eagerly awaiting moving day to arrive. Then there are those who spend the summer feeling anxious and worried about the life changes ahead of them. For those that are feeling the nerves because of all the impending lifestyle changes, we’re here to help you build confidence ahead of the university move.
Think about these tips and tricks when it comes to finding your feet in your new environment.
1. Think Positively
It may seem like a simple concept, but looking at things in a positive way will ultimately help you feel more positive. So every time a negative thought creeps in (‘I’m going to do badly in exams’) replace with a positive (‘I will work hard to revise and do the best of my ability in exams’).
This positive reinforcement will help build up your self-esteem. Say no to negative self-talk, as this will only bring your confidence levels down.
2. Sign Up to Clubs & Societies
If one of your biggest pre-uni fears is not being able to make friends, then put yourself out there and actively search for like-minded people with similar hobbies and interests. Visit your uni’s freshers' fair and sign up to any societies that interest you. Often these clubs and societies will have regular meet-ups outside of any activities, so it’s a great way to make friends.
3. Set Small Goals When Speaking to a New Person
There is no quick fix to building confidence and therefore there’s room for constant improvement and development. Instead of setting yourself a big overarching goal of ‘be more confident’, set yourself mini goals to achieve this.
So, for social butterfly status start off small by approaching the student in the bedroom next door to you. Then once you have ticked off this goal, mentally celebrate this achievement before moving on to another goal like inviting this new friend for a coffee in the kitchen.
Having trouble sparking up a conversation with your neighbour? One of the best ways is to find a common interest, so if you've heard a familiar band blasting from their speakers or spotted them in your lecture hall then start with these safe topics. Alternatively, asking a question is another easy way of starting a conversation. And just remember, in those first few days/weeks everyone is in the same boat so get set to hear a lot of 'what are you studying?' and 'where are you from?' questions flying about.
4. Stay True To Yourself
Always be true to yourself and never do something for the sake of appearances. So, if you’re a massive hockey fan, then it makes perfect sense to join the society. But if you’re not, then don’t spend a term listening to hockey talk and googling ‘hockey fouls.’ Most universities will have clubs and societies suitable for a wide range of interests from sport to music, book clubs and more - so find something that best suits you!
Do MORE of what makes you HAPPY! Uni is an amazing place to find friends and create memories for life. So, take your time to find your feet, get involved and remember you'll only have this experience once... so make the most of it.
For more wellbeing advice, watch our video with expert Clare Dimond below...
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