We all have our moments of self-doubt, but some phrases are like neon signs pointing to our deepest insecurities.
If you find yourself dropping these verbal breadcrumbs, you might as well be wearing a t-shirt that says, “I’m feeling a bit wobbly about myself right now.” Here are some of the most telling things that might come out of your mouth.
1. “I’m probably wrong, but…”
This classic opener is like a pre-apology for having thoughts. It’s the verbal equivalent of tiptoeing into a conversation, afraid someone might notice you have an opinion.
2. “I’m not like other girls/guys.”
Congratulations, you’ve just insulted an entire gender while trying to make yourself feel special. This phrase screams, “I’m desperately trying to stand out because I don’t feel good enough as I am.”
3. “No offence, but…”
Spoiler alert: you’re about to say something offensive. This phrase is the verbal equivalent of revving up to drive your car through someone’s living room.
4. “I’m not trying to brag, but…”
Oh, but you are. You really, really are. This phrase is usually followed by a humblebrag so obvious it could be seen from space.
5. “Does this make me look fat?”
The loaded question of the century. No matter the answer, it’s clear you’re not feeling great about yourself right now.
6. “I’m sorry for being sorry.”
The apology inception. You’re so used to apologising for existing that you’re now apologising for apologising. It’s like watching someone try to climb out of a hole by digging deeper.
7. “I know I’m not as [insert quality] as…”
Comparison is the thief of joy, and you’ve just handed over your happiness wallet. This phrase is a one-way ticket to Insecurity City, population: you.
8. “I’m just lucky, I guess.”
Heaven forbid you take credit for your hard work or talents. This phrase dismisses your efforts and chalks everything up to chance, as if you’re not worthy of your successes.
9. “I’m not good at anything.”
The battle cry of the chronically insecure. It’s like you’re trying to win a race to the bottom of the self-esteem pool.
10. “Why would anyone like me?”
This question is less about getting an answer and more about fishing for compliments with dynamite. It’s a cry for validation wrapped in self-deprecation.
11. “I’m boring.”
Said by people who are probably far more interesting than they give themselves credit for. It’s like you’re trying to beat people to the punch by insulting yourself first.
12. “I’m not smart enough for this.”
The unofficial motto of imposter syndrome. This phrase is usually uttered right before doing something impressive, making it even more ironic.
13. “I hope this doesn’t sound stupid, but…”
The verbal equivalent of wincing before speaking. It’s like you’re apologising for your thoughts before they’ve even left your mouth.
14. “I’m just saying what everyone’s thinking.”
No, you’re really not. This is often a cover for saying something inappropriate, as if group approval (real or imagined) makes it okay.
15. “I know you probably don’t care, but…”
A pre-emptive strike against rejection. You’re so afraid of being dismissed that you’re dismissing yourself first.
16. “I’m not good enough for…”
Whether it’s a job, a person, or an opportunity, this phrase is the anthem of the self-saboteur. It’s like you’re rejecting yourself before anyone else gets the chance.
17. “I don’t deserve…”
The sequel to “I’m not good enough.” This phrase suggests you’ve appointed yourself judge, jury, and executioner of your own worth.
18. “I’m afraid I’ll mess this up.”
The mantra of perfectionists everywhere. It’s like you’re psyching yourself out before you’ve even started.
19. “I wish I were more like…”
Source: Unsplash The grass is always greener, isn’t it? This phrase shows you’re so focused on other people’s qualities that you’re blind to your own.
20. “I’m not photogenic.”
Translation: “I don’t like how I look, but I’m trying to blame it on the camera.” It’s a roundabout way of expressing dissatisfaction with your appearance.
21. “I’m just being realistic.”
Often used to justify negative self-talk or low expectations. It’s like you’re trying to protect yourself from disappointment by aiming for mediocrity.
