Insecurity!
We all feel insecure at times. Sometimes it may be a new situation or environment which leads to a sense of insecurity. However, I want to focus on those deeper rooted feelings that we may not be good enough. This lack of self worth expresses itself as insecurity.
Bogs You Down
The manifestation of insecurity is truly an anchor. It prevents us from living a full, normal life. Feelings of insecurity usually result in a socially isolated life and in extreme forms can produce paranoia.
Feelings of self doubt are crippling. Even if we are prepared to execute something we can easily do, we can be tripped up by self doubt.
Don’t confuse unpreparedness, which causes nervous doubt but is limited to a specific event, for insecurity.
Relationships
Feelings of insecurity impacts relationships negatively. If we don’t have a good self image it makes a having good relationship difficult. If we don’t love ourselves (warts and all), how can we love another person?
Roots of Insecurity Are Multi-Faceted
There are many causes and theories of how one becomes burdened with insecurity, such as a terrible childhood or subjection to bullying. However, I am not a therapist and though it may be helpful to unearth the root cause, I would rather focus on an acknowledgement of insecurity, moving forward to chip away at it.
Insecurity can be overcome or mitigated. It may take time and patience but the rewards are huge and must be pursued. You can balance an acknowledgement of any shortcomings you may have (while working to improve them) but still believe and recognize your own self worth.
Don’t confuse, for example a lack of education, or physical awkwardness with your value as a person. The world is filled with smart, athletic, successful individuals who are terrible people. Our culture elevates someone with Hollywood good looks, tons of money or possesses some talent. However, those superficial attributes are just a tiny slice of each of us.
You are important and valuable. You have as much to contribute as anyone else on the planet. Some may be able to express themselves or a point of view easier than you, but that does not make what they say or believe any more valuable than your views. Don’t let yourself get caught up with what other people may or may not think of you. Being a selfless, humble, honest, loving individual is the true measure of a ‘valuable’ person and in the end the only thing that counts.