I’ve been asked several times by my friends and coworkers how I always keep such a positive mindset. While I’m not in #bossgirlmode 24/7, but I do try to focus on embracing and exuding positivity in all aspects of my life. It’s far too easy to be cynical about things all the time, and I like the challenge of finding beauty and goodness every day in people and in the world.

If you’re trying to embrace confidence and happiness on a daily basis, here are my top five tips for making these essential lifestyle changes.

BUY A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

Every night before bed, I like to write down what I am grateful for. It can be a big or small life change – it doesn't matter. Being able to read back over happy memories and special little things will instantly pep you up if you’re having a bad day.

PHOTO: Pexels

CLEAR YOUR HEAD

Stress is a part of our everyday lives whether we want it to be or not. However, how we deal with it is up to us. Whenever I feel this way, I usually have to take a breather to clear my head before I burst into tears. But also if you must cry, cry — who doesn't need a good cry sometimes to let it all go?

Maybe for you, the answer to clear your head is to go for a walk or listen to some calming music or an e-book. Or maybe doing something like yoga or Pilates is your jam! Take the time at least once a week to de-stress and find your happy place, wherever that may be.

PHOTO: Pexels

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH YOUR FAVORITE THINGS

What makes you happy? Do you like to go shopping with friends? Get all dolled up and take photos? What about cooking your favorite meal while drinking a glass of wine? Maybe you enjoy taking a fitness class, or scrapbooking or jogging. Whatever brings you joy in life, make sure to surround yourself with it and make it a part of your daily routine.

Take classes that inspire and challenge you. Decorate your living room or workspace so that you're thrilled to call it your home. Pick an outfit that makes you feel sexy and confident. Whatever you love and enjoy, have it saturate your life.

Photo: Pexels

LET IT ALL GO

Learn to smile at yourself and kind strangers. Act silly. Laugh a lot with friends. Give yourself permission to honestly let go and not care what anyone else thinks. Be crazy, spontaneous and fun. Be free! In today’s society, it’s too easy to restrict ourselves in fear of someone not "liking" us. Such a fear limits how we feel, think, and act, and we should never allow fear to rob us of our joy. Always be authentically you, whoever that unique you may be. We choose peace over hate.

Photo: Pexels

LEARN TO LOVE YOURSELF AGAIN

Low self-esteem and constant comparison of yourself to others can be absolutely heartbreaking, and will make it incredibly hard for you to focus on anything positive in your life. You’ve got to fall in love with yourself, and that includes all of your flaws and odd quirks. Instead of thinking about ways to try and change yourself, shift that focus to fully accept who you are. It's never too late to start. By wanting more, you already stand on the right path towards self-love. Keep going.

Photo: Pexels

What do you do to stay confident every day?

Ready. Set. Boss. Our daily email is pouring out inspiration with the latest #BlackGirlBossUp moments, tips on hair, beauty and lifestyle to get you on track to a better you! Sign up today.

Self journey