5 Tips to Regain Confidence as a Person With Diabetes

In fact, many people with diabetes live exciting and fulfilling lives. Don’t let diabetes hold you back! In this article, we’ll guide you through steps that will help you feel more confident, so you can start your journey to feeling stronger and more energetic. 

1. Start with Self-Compassion 

Show yourself compassion! Checking your blood sugar multiple times a day and seeing numbers you don’t like or understand can be infuriating. It’s unfortunately far too easy to become self critical when facing a less than ideal blood sugar. Recognize that you will make mistakes. You’re only human after all. Managing diabetes may require making changes to your ‘normal’ lifestyle and adapting to a new routine takes time. There is no such thing as perfection in diabetes. Stop criticizing and be kind to yourself. 

If your numbers are high, think about the causes, what you can learn, and how you might make changes the next time. Make a plan to manage your blood sugar. Destructive criticism will only

make you feel worse. Instead, be constructive and try something different! It only takes a little trial and error to rebuild your confidence. As you start to practice compassion, instead of criticism, your new found energy and positivity will begin to shine through! 

2. Take Ownership 

Learning to take ownership of your diabetes can do a lot for both your health and your confidence.¹ Take advantage of the wonderful resources available to you! Talk to your endocrinologist, join a support group, and read online articles. A problem shared is a problem halved and you’ll feel less alone after opening up to other like minded people about your highs and lows. Every day will bring new challenges, but prioritizing how to take care of yourself will enable you to enjoy your life to the fullest. 

In order to master your diabetes management, check-in with yourself regularly. Ask yourself questions like: Am I taking good care of myself both physically and mentally? Am I working too hard? Am I making the right choices to manage my diabetes? The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel in the choices you’ve made. 

3. Make Exercise a Priority 

Too often, exercise takes a backseat when it comes to diabetes management. A lack of activity can lead to unwanted weight gain, which further contributes to a lack of self confidence.² As hard as it is, make exercising a priority. The long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort. When you feel strong and fit, you start to feel more attractive and confident. Exercise offers multiple physical benefits, as highlighted by Harvard Health; it helps lower blood pressure, reduces cholesterol, and makes bones and muscles stronger. It also helps reduce anxiety and control weight.² 

As always, when it comes to starting a new physical activity, have a discussion with your doctor or diabetes team to establish the best routine for you. 

4. Use Positive Affirmations 

Try using positive affirmations daily. Start off small, and gradually make this part of your daily routine. Look in the mirror and tell yourself “I love the way I smile,” or “I exercised today, woohoo! My body feels good.” Give yourself props when it comes to your diabetes management. Tell yourself; “I’m proud of the way I’m caring for my health,” or “I chose a healthy meal today.” 

Little boosts of confidence lead to longer stretches of joy. You are unique and exquisite! Celebrate your moments of greatness!

5. Maintain a Positive Attitude 

Your general attitude can have a big impact on your self-esteem. Studies show that your personality actually influences your perceptions of physical attractiveness. Self-loathing leads to both internal and external negativity. When you make efforts to stay positive, you’ll not only feel more confident, you’ll come across as more confident too.³ 

A chronic illness like diabetes can cause your confidence to take a big hit and trigger feelings of doubt and insecurity. Starting today, this week, or this month, remind yourself of all the reasons why you are beautiful.Your body is strong! Learn to appreciate it! Compassion, ownership, and affirmations will make a big difference in the long run and help you get your spark back. 

 All information in this article is based on the following sources:

1. Gardener, L., Desha, L.,Bourke-Taylor H., Ziviana, J., 2020. Responsibility sharing for adolescents with type 1 diabetes: A scoping review. Chronic Illness, [online]. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1742395320959406#articleCitationDownlo adContainer. 

2. Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School, 2019. The Importance of Exercise When You Have Diabetes. [webpage] Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-importance-of-exercise-when-you-ha ve-diabetes [Accessed 18/01/21]. 

3. Science Daily, 2007. Personality Traits Influence Perceived Attractiveness. [webpage] Available at: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071129145852.htm [Accessed 18/01/21].