Low Confidence

Low confidence and self-esteem can feel like a heavy burden, holding you back from reaching your true potential. It’s that persistent inner critic whispering, “You’re not good enough,” or the self-doubt that stops you from taking risks, setting boundaries or believing in yourself. These feelings can shape how you see the world and your place within it, leaving you feeling stuck and unworthy.

Confidence is your belief in your ability to handle life’s challenges, while self-esteem reflects your overall sense of worth. When these are low, you may experience:

• Self-doubt: Constantly questioning your decisions and abilities.
• Fear of judgment: Avoiding opportunities for fear of criticism.
• Negative self-talk: A harsh inner voice telling you you’re not enough.
• People-pleasing: Sacrificing your needs to gain approval from others.
• Perfectionism: Setting impossible standards and feeling like a failure when they’re not met.

These patterns can be deeply ingrained, but the good news is that low self-esteem is not permanent.

The journey to higher confidence begins with reframing how you see yourself. Your worth is not tied to external factors like achievements, appearance, or your parents' opinions or approval. Building confidence isn’t about becoming flawless; it’s about embracing your authentic self, including your strengths and imperfections. As Brené Brown wisely says, “owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do.” This shift in perspective allows you to approach yourself with compassion, patience, and understanding instead of judgment or shame.

Low confidence doesn’t have to define you. With awareness and intentional steps, you can silence the inner critic, rebuild your self-worth, and create a life rooted in confidence and empowerment. The path to self-acceptance is one of the most transformative journeys you’ll ever take. Understanding the root causes of low self-esteem is key to overcoming it. Start by challenging negative self-talk, setting realistic expectations, and practising self-approval. As Louise Hay beautifully put it, “You have been criticising yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.”