If happiness feels elusive as we move into 2026, you are not alone. Many people grapple with a sense of failing at joy, overwhelmed by screens, notifications, economic pressures, and unrealistic societal expectations. Confidence coach and author Jules Von Hep, known for his book The Confidence Ritual, offers a refreshing alternative. With two decades in the beauty industry, often working with vulnerable individuals, he emphasises consistent daily behaviours over quick fixes. "Confidence isn't a personality trait," he asserts. "It's how you treat yourself on an ordinary Tuesday." Here, Von Hep outlines eight practical ways to cultivate more positivity and presence in the coming year.
1. Start with What Feels Good
Von Hep's accidental career in beauty taught him a crucial lesson: daily activities must be enjoyable to be sustainable. He advises pausing to identify what you like in your life and seeking more of it. Focus on small wins, such as completing a task or savouring a coffee, and build momentum from these "happy moments." This approach helps shift your situation to support a more confident self.
2. Notice the 'Glimmers'
Inspired by Deb Dana's Polyvagal Theory, Von Hep champions "glimmers"—tiny, often overlooked moments of joy, like a seamless commute or an unexpected biscuit with your coffee. Keeping a glimmer log with notes or photos can remind you of joy on tougher days, fostering a habit of appreciation that ripples into your community.
3. Reframe How You See Yourself
Von Hep's confidence journey began by shifting from self-criticism to self-appreciation. He recommends replacing one negative thought daily with a neutral or positive alternative. Over time, these micro-adjustments alter your perception, boosting self-confidence and allowing you to see life through a kinder lens.
4. Curate Your Energy
Surround yourself with "energy radiators"—people who uplift you—and minimise time with "mood hoovers" who drain your confidence. This applies to both in-person interactions and online content. Audit your social circles and digital feed to ensure they reinforce positivity, not undermine it.
5. Use Music and Movement Deliberately
Von Hep swears by "kitchen raving," dancing to favourite songs during chores to flush out negativity. He shares how music helped him recover from a panic attack, highlighting its power for inner healing. Schedule 5–10 minutes daily for conscious movement to reset your mind and boost mood.
6. Combine Gratitude with Awareness
"Gratitude isn't just a list, it's noticing what's already in front of you," says Von Hep. He encourages blending glimmers with gratitude, focusing on sensory details like smells or smiles. Each evening, note three positive moments to strengthen your perception of joy and stay present.
7. Make Self-Care Practical
Critiquing "toxic wellness" culture, Von Hep stresses that self-care should be tangible and consistent, not about fleeting treats. Prioritise habits like drinking water, walking, or journaling over trends. Small, daily actions make life more manageable and build lasting well-being.
8. Build Consistency Through Community
Regular interaction with supportive people, whether online or in person, reinforces confidence and reduces loneliness. Commit to a weekly activity, such as a run club or yoga class, to foster connections. Over time, this community exposure integrates confidence into daily life.
Von Hep concludes, "It's not about transformation. It's about maintenance. Small actions make daily life more manageable." For 2026, these steps—like keeping a glimmer log or dancing in the kitchen—may seem modest, but they compound over time, creating a resilient foundation of confidence and presence.
