The world has a way of making you feel like you’re not enough, which is why it’s so important to back yourself.
Having the confidence to stand behind your values, goals, and decisions is a mark of integrity and character, but it’s not necessarily easy to accomplish. Sadly, people who doubt themselves tend to be easily recognisable because they do things that give away exactly how little self-belief they have.
1. They apologise excessively.
Saying sorry for things that don’t warrant an apology is a telltale sign of self-doubt. It might be for taking up space, asking questions, or even for their own feelings. It’s a habit that often stems from a fear of being a burden or causing inconvenience. If you find yourself apologising for existing, it might be time to reflect on why you feel the need to do so.
2. They struggle to make decisions.
When self-doubt creeps in, even small choices can feel overwhelming. Deciding what to eat for lunch or which film to watch might turn into a lengthy process. So much hesitation often comes from a fear of making the ‘wrong’ choice. Remember, there’s rarely a perfect decision, and it’s okay to trust your instincts.
3. They constantly seek validation from anyone who will give it to them.
Needing frequent reassurance is a common behaviour for those battling self-doubt. It might show up as asking for opinions on every outfit or seeking approval for ideas before acting on them. While it’s natural to value other people’s input, relying too heavily on external validation can destroy self-trust. Your opinion matters too!
4. They downplay their achievements.
When someone doubts themselves, they often struggle to own their successes. They might brush off compliments or attribute their accomplishments to luck rather than skill. Making a habit of minimising achievements can prevent them from fully celebrating their hard work. It’s important to acknowledge your efforts and allow yourself to feel proud.
5. They avoid taking risks or trying new things.
Self-doubt can lead to a fear of failure, making new experiences seem daunting. It might manifest as sticking to familiar routines or turning down opportunities for growth. While it’s comfortable to stay in your comfort zone, remember that every expert was once a beginner. Taking small steps outside your usual habits can build confidence over time.
6. They compare themselves to other people constantly.
In the age of social media, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. Someone doubting themselves might frequently measure their life, achievements, or appearance against other people’s. Sadly, it’s a habit that can fuel feelings of inadequacy. It’s crucial to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and what you see online isn’t always the full picture.
7. They struggle to accept compliments.
When self-doubt is present, kind words from other people can be hard to believe. You might notice them deflecting praise or immediately countering a compliment with self-criticism. Learning to simply say “thank you” when someone offers a genuine compliment is a small but powerful step towards self-acceptance.
8. They often feel like an impostor.
Impostor syndrome is a common manifestation of self-doubt. Despite evidence of their competence, they might feel like a fraud, constantly worrying about being ‘found out’. This can lead to overworking or avoiding opportunities for advancement. Remember, you’ve earned your place, and it’s okay to own your expertise.
9. They have difficulty setting boundaries.
Self-doubt can make it challenging to assert personal limits, which might show up as agreeing to plans they don’t want to make or taking on more work than they can handle. Setting healthy boundaries is an act of self-respect. It’s okay to say no and prioritise your own needs and well-being.
10. They often second-guess their decisions.
Even after making a choice, someone with self-doubt might continually question if it was the right one. This can lead to a cycle of worry and regret. While it’s good to reflect on decisions, constant second-guessing can be exhausting. Trust that you made the best choice with the information you had at the time.
11. They have a hard time speaking up in groups.
In meetings or social gatherings, they might stay quiet even when they have something valuable to contribute. Their reluctance often stems from fear of saying the wrong thing or being judged. Remember, your voice and ideas are just as important as anyone else’s. The world needs to hear what you have to say.
12. They focus on their flaws.
Someone struggling with self-doubt might have a tendency to zoom in on their so-called shortcomings. They might spend more time worrying about what they lack rather than appreciating their strengths. Try to balance this by actively acknowledging your positive qualities and accomplishments, no matter how small they might seem.
13. They have trouble accepting help.
Paradoxically, while they might doubt their own abilities, some people with self-doubt struggle to accept help from other people. It could be due to a fear of seeming incompetent or a belief that they don’t deserve help. Remember, everyone needs support sometimes, and accepting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
