Beat second-best syndromeDo you feel like there’s always someone smarter, prettier or funnier than you? Then it’s time to put yourself first.

Be-The-Best PlanCreate a booster-boxIf you are still clinging to last year’s birthday cards or sexy emails from your boyfriend, you’re in to a good thing. “Friends and families often get quite emotional in birthday cards,” says Rachel Brushfield, from life-coaching company Energise. “They tell us we’re brilliant, that we’re loved and totally unique. These are the things we need to remember when second-best thoughts are brewing in our brains, so make sure you store all these artefacts in a box and, whenever you’re feeling low, have a quick flick through.”

Keep a record of achievement…Katie Harris, 25, a receptionist from St Albans, has an unusual New Year’s Eve ritual. “My friends think I’m mad, but every 31st December, I retreat to a quiet corner o Starbucks and write my review of the year. I list my top 10 achievements – which could be anything from having the courage to sing at a karaoke night to negotiating a pay rise – then I plan out my objectives for the next three months. The whole process reminds me of how much I’ve achieved.” Can’t wait for next January? Try doing it on a birthday or anniversary instead.

…And dump the ‘Reject’ baggage“When we’re told ‘no’ by more than one institution, we think it’s because we aren’t good enough. But that doesn’t mean they were right.” The solution? “Throw away any rejection letters after two weeks.”

Fake it till you make itWhen you start a job, it’s easy to feel you don’t know what you’re doing, but there’s no need to let people know.

Picture yourself being the bestA simple but powerful tip from leading life coaches is to imagine your successes. This strategy worked for Helen Julia Storey, 27, from Hertfordshire. “I’m a temp for the NHS, but my dream is to make it in musical theatre,” she says. “I always get nervous at auditions, but the audition for Grease Gold was held on a theatre stage. Once the thrill of performing washed over me, I forgot I was at an audition. I imagined myself in full costume performing in the show and really enjoyed myself. It worked – I landed the part of Frenchie and now perform for hundreds of people every week.”

Stop the “Comparalympics”There’s no point in comparing yourself to women who’ve made different life choices, the different choices we make are what keeps friendship interesting.

Step outside your comfort zone

Force yourself out of your comfort zone. Life is more fulfilling when it’s a little scary and unpredictable.