You might not have expected this one, but this surprisingly simple act can make a huge difference in your levels of confidence and outgoingness. “Every man should make it their mission to politely and appropriately say hello to one stranger a day,” says Jones. And you shouldn’t worry about picking the perfect stranger; it could be a cashier, the greeter at the gym, or someone you pass on your evening dog walk. Whoever it is, it doesn’t matter, as long as you can lock eyes with them.

In our digital age of people who like to keep to themselves, maintaining eye contact and saying even just one word to a stranger can be terrifying. If that sounds all-too-familiar, it’s fine to start with a smile a day, according to Jones. “Don’t expect everyone to be responsive, or even your efforts becoming enlightening conversations,” he reminds us. “It’s about breaking out of your bubble and feeling proud of doing something most people are afraid to do.”

9. Build Stability in the Important Areas of Your Life

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Much of one’s inner confidence comes from building and maintaining solid roots. That way, when life inevitably throws you some curveballs, you will have the strength and support you need to stay grounded. Jones lays it out straight for us: “It’s hard to be confident (for long) if key parts of your life are a mess.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. 

So, get clear on your priorities and what areas of your life are constant. Jones encourages that you “are putting in the time to learn how to become more knowledgeable and organized in key life areas such as finances, career, relationships, socializing, family, and health.” These constant areas in our life will, of course, have their own set of ups and downs, but continually putting in work and progressing will ensure that you have a fundamental level of safety in them no matter what life throws your way.