How to Overcome Insecurities

Lack of confidence results from feelings of insecurity. Discover the various types of insecurities and how to overcome feelings of self-doubt.

What Exactly Are Insecurities?

Insecurities are anxious feelings that cause you to doubt your worth, accomplishments, and values. This lack of self-assurance impedes personal development, relationships, and decision-making. Various factors can cause feelings of inadequacy; however, some common causes of insecurities include a recent failure, past trauma, or unrealistic expectations. While insecurity is a natural emotion, it can be detrimental to your mental health.

Signs of Insecurity

Physical, mental, and emotional symptoms are caused by insecurities. Anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and self-isolation are all common symptoms of insecurity. Perfectionism and poor performance are both signs of insecurity at work. While some people demonstrate job insecurity by failing to recognize progress, others allow their insecurities to interfere with their performance.

4 Types of Insecurity

Different types of insecurity have different effects on a person's self-worth. The following are some examples of common types of insecurity:

1. Body image insecurity: People who have body image insecurity are self-conscious about their appearance. A common cause of a negative self-image is constantly comparing your outward appearance to unrealistic beauty standards. Body image insecurity can lead to disordered eating in severe cases.

2. Job insecurity: Anxiety about your professional life is another form of insecurity. Job insecurity refers to any form of self-doubt related to your job. This type of insecurity may include doubting your abilities and being concerned about factors beyond your control, such as inflation and economic downturns.

3. Relationship insecurity: Insecurities can arise from unstable relationships with loved ones. When past experiences or feelings of doubt prevent you from feeling safe in your close relationships, you have relationship insecurity. These feelings of self-doubt keep people from trusting their friends, family, and significant others.

4. Social anxiety: A common insecurity is feeling nervous or self-conscious in social situations. Feeling insecure in the presence of others is referred to as social anxiety. This type of insecurity is often caused by a fear of being judged and can prevent you from speaking up at work or interacting with friends and family.

Impact of Insecurity

Insecurities can have a negative impact on both your professional and personal well-being. In the workplace, insecurities reduce self-confidence and impair job performance. Personal feelings of inadequacy have a negative impact on your relationships, resulting in jealousy and self-sabotage. Allowing insecurities to rule your mind also prevents you from believing in yourself and reaching your goals.

How to Overcome Insecurities: 4 Tips

As you overcome your insecurities, give yourself time to reflect and change. Consider the following suggestions to help you improve your mindset:

1. Create a positive social network. Having healthy relationships with friends, family, and coworkers helps to prevent the insecurities that come with negative attachment styles. Set clear boundaries in your relationships so that you feel safe and valued in them. Engaging with loved ones is also a preventative measure for negative thoughts and self-isolation.

2. Concentrate on meaningful hobbies. Devote your free time to activities that give you a sense of purpose and happiness. Getting out of your comfort zone and learning something new boosts your self-esteem and helps you overcome insecurities.

3. Encourage positive thinking. Getting over insecurities begins with how you interact with yourself. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations that highlight your strengths to boost your self-esteem. When you notice your inner critic in a negative cycle, take a moment to reflect. Forgive yourself and remind yourself that mistakes provide opportunities for growth.

4. Take care of yourself. Mindfulness can help you prioritize your emotional and mental health. Self-compassion is one way you can incorporate mindfulness into your daily life. This type of self-care stems from treating yourself with the same kindness and care that you do for those around you.