Insecurity doesn’t always walk in wearing a sign. It’s sneaky. A lot of the time, we don’t even realize we’re showing it. It hides in habits, little phrases, and everyday behaviors that feel normal. If any of these sound familiar, it might be your insecurity talking louder than you think. Here are 10 ways it shows up without you even noticing.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Overexplaining everything
Ever found yourself justifying or defending a decision, even a small one, to the point where you’re giving way too much detail? Or ever find yourself over-explaining something because you’re worried people will think you’re wrong or stupid? This is a sign of insecurity.
Constantly apologizing
You keep saying sorry for something that isn’t your fault, like expressing an opinion. You think you’re being polite. But if you constantly apologize for no reason, it can signal that you don’t feel like you have the right to be heard.
Downplaying your achievements
Your brain can’t quite handle the concept of people thinking you did a good job. You feel embarrassed, or maybe unworthy, to take any credit for your achievements, even when you actually worked hard for them.
Always needing reassurance
You just like to make sure people are okay with you being there or if you did something wrong. It’s not a bad thing to do every now and then, but if you constantly ask, it can erode your confidence and other people’s patience.
Avoiding eye contact
Looking away when you’re talking to someone can make you seem unsure or uninterested. Avoiding eye contact is a sneaky signal to others (and to yourself) that you’re feeling small or uncertain at the moment.
Being overly self-critical
We all criticize ourselves sometimes, but there’s a difference between correcting a behavior we don’t like and saying mean things to ourselves every day. Do you often criticize the way you look, talk, or act? It becomes a habit before you even notice it.
Trying to be “perfect” all the time
You might re-check emails before you send them, or silently rehearse your entire conversation before you talk to someone. A lot of times this need for everything to be “perfect” comes from a fear of being judged or found wanting.
Struggling to say no
You agree to things you don’t want to do, just to avoid conflict or rejection. It might feel easier in the moment, but over time it drains your energy and self-respect.
Comparing yourself to others nonstop
You constantly look at what others are doing, wearing, or achieving and it always feels like they’re doing better. Social media doesn’t help, but the root of it is self-doubt.
Laughing off your pain or needs
You make jokes about your flaws or problems before anyone else can. It feels like you’re protecting yourself, but really, you’re covering up how insecure you feel deep down.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
