Need more confidence

People say I lack confidence and come across as timid as well as monotone. And I often come across as nervous and don't stick up for my self as often as I should.

So I was wondering how I can change this?

This has been an ongoing issue for me for a while, and despite the fact that I haven't provided much detail I don't know what else to say to be blunt.

Sometimes we get caught off guard - so this could result in appearing timid of lacking confidence. But maybe think of what you would do differently next time, in a similar situation, and then you'll be somewhat ready for another possible time. Be ready.

Hello, TheThinker. This article may be helpful:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/***...2/METHOD=print

Okay... people say. What do you say? How do you see yourself? Sometimes there is a difference. People say I seem relaxed and at ease.
That isn't usually how I feel though
The only thing that has ever helped me gain confidence in any facet of my life is success. By "success" I don't mean winning or being the best necessarily. Success can be found in the effort of trying. The timidity and nervous feeling can be lack of confidence/experience or it could be an ingrained behavior. Not sticking up for yourself seems like it's definitely ingrained behavior. You may have found it seemed easier not to stick up for yourself and you've gotten used to doing it. Now you may be realizing that ultimately it isn't the easier way.