Boost your confidence

Most of us have off-days every so often; here's how to maximise your mood everyday with these confidence-boosting ideas.

Be posture perfect

People who stand tall ooze confidence. According to Bupa doctor Paula Franklin, you can also make yourself appear several pounds lighter as well as help relieve tension in your body. Many back and neck problems are caused by or worsened by slouching or poor posture.

Feel good about yourself

A positive outlook is an attractive trait to have. Dr Franklin suggests: make a list of all your good qualities - remembering your good points can shift you into a more positive mood. Turn negatives into positives and dont put yourself down and be self-critical.

Get up 20 minutes early

Don't hit the snooze button - even if it's grey and rainy enough outside to make you want to stay in bed all day. Sit down and eat a healthy breakfast. Try to include fresh fruit, energy-giving cereal with yoghurt or skimmed milk. Spend more time with your family even if it's just chatting in bed with your partner or inventing stories for your children; it'll be more rewarding than a 20-minute snooze. Prepare a healthy packed lunch - you'll save money and you'll know exactly what you're eating.

Published by Bupa's Health Information Team. For more information visit our health factsheets.