Insecurity, defined as uncertainty or anxiety about oneself, or a lack of confidence, is a feeling that all of us have grappled with at some point in our lives. As Eleanor Roosevelt once brilliantly remarked, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Derived from the Latin terms ‘in-‘ meaning ‘not’ and ‘securus’ meaning ‘free from care,’ insecurity indeed feels like the opposite of being carefree. It comes with its own set of coping challenges, including the tendency to compare oneself with others, dealing with self-doubt, and a fear of rejection.

However, there are ways to effectively cope with these challenges. Practicing self-compassion, utilizing positive affirmations, and setting healthy boundaries can contribute significantly to managing feelings of insecurity. Overcompensating for perceived shortcomings, withdrawing from social interactions, or constantly seeking validation from others may seem tempting, but these approaches often exacerbate feelings of insecurity rather than alleviate them.

Insecurity often accompanies feelings of doubt, fear, and anxiety. Thoughts associated with this feeling might include, ‘I’m not good enough,’ or ‘They’re better than me.’ These thoughts may then drive certain behaviors like defensiveness, indecisiveness, or avoidance.

There are numerous coping skills, tools, and resources available to help manage insecurity. Self-care, seeking therapeutic help, practicing mindfulness, and working on building self-esteem are all beneficial strategies.

Navigating through feelings of insecurity can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Consider joining the Conscious Coping Club, where you can access a wealth of resources about managing feelings of insecurity and other challenging emotions. In the Conscious Coping Club, you can also participate in interactive coping quests, and earn badges for your progress.