Inside our October issue

What makes you feel confident? Is it a blow-dry, biker jacket, bold red lip, a hot pair of Crocs?

Sure, those little garnishes can make you feel bulletproof on a blah day. (OK, maybe not the Crocs.) The thing is, confidence runs deeper than that hater-blocking spray-tan.

Being comfortable in your skin means overcoming setbacks, but most importantly it means being kind – to you. So upgrade that judgy internal monologue to one that high fives you.

Here’s one Amy Schumer prepared earlier: “I say if I’m beautiful. I say if I’m strong. You will not determine my story, I will.” Agreed. If your game doesn’t feel super-strong right now, make like our cover star Jess Gomes and get into your best Wonder Woman stance.

Related: Jessica Gomes's red hot body secrets

Social psychologist and body language expert Amy Cuddy says standing in a power pose like this can instantly affect your cortisol and testosterone levels, so you immediately feel empowered, even if your day is meh. (Be sure to YouTube her TED Talk.)

Related: Six steps to less anxiety

From cover to cover, this issue is full of inspo to help you tap into your most confident self – whether that’s owning your bikini body post-winter (check out our complete plan on p102) or getting what you really want in bed (see p118 and reoooooow) to smashing stress for good (p92), we’ve got you covered.

Rachelle xx