Definition
We feel insecure when self doubt makes us fear judgment, failure, or not being enough.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Insecurity alerts us to social risk, and encourages us to adhere to norms, make improvements, and build relationships to protect our status and maintain social acceptance.
◈ How It Shows Up
“Do I measure up?”Shrinking from the spotlightOverexplaining, overcheckingJoking or bragging as a maskScanning faces for cues
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Pick one skill gap to work on
- Ask a mentor for project input
- Set aside a “confidence” outfit
- Practice ahead of time, if possible
- Write your wins in a “receipts” list
- Detox on social media
- Try it in a lower-stakes setting first
Bad Ideas
- Fish for compliments
- Let one troll dictate your mood
- Make grand “self reinvention” plans
- Police your pain to favor others
- Over-edit each message/email
- Compare yourself to others
- Downplay your own needs