Inferiority Complex: Toss Out Feelings of Insignificance
Do you ever feel insecure and inferior?
That’s kind of a silly question because we all do. At least, I think everyone else does or maybe I’m just weird. It’s probably just me. I’ve always been kind of a loser.
Isn’t that how it normally goes? Your brain just kind of runs away on you. One minute everything is fine and the next you feel totally small and insignificant.
Why do we do this to ourselves and how can we avoid it?
We need to battle feelings of insignificance to be successful
Feelings of inferiority undermine our success.
Our doubts about ourselves rob us of the confidence we need to take the action necessary to achieve positive things in our lives.
In other words, feelings of insignificance lead to doubt which grows to fear. Fear paralyzes us preventing us from taking action.
Success requires action.
It doesn’t really matter how you define success. It requires you to DO something to get there.
When we are constantly battling feelings of inferiority and insignificance, you aren’t likely to take the appropriate steps to get to where you want to go.
Therefore, in order to live a full and rewarding life, we must learn to quiet the negative voice in our heads that pulls us down and step forward toward where we want to be.
Do you have an inferiority complex?
First, let’s deal with the worst case scenario.
Most of us probably don’t really have a true inferiority complex. Generally, this condition is characterized by extremely low self-esteem and insignificance.
If you are concerned that you might suffer from an inferiority complex, then please take a look at the 7 Signs You Have An Inferiority Complex to evaluate yourself.
Again, many of us have feelings of inferiority to a lesser degree from time-to-time, but if you are one of the few that regularly and strongly identifies with the seven signs, then I would encourage you to seek some professional counseling.
It is possible to free yourself from an inferiority complex so you can live a more full and happy life, but you probably need some assistance to get back on the right path.
With just a little help from a good counselor, you will develop a healthy self-image which will give you the confidence to live a happier, more fulfilling life!
How to deal with occasional feelings of insignificance
Okay, so you don’t have an inferiority complex, but you still battle feelings of insignificance and insecurity once in awhile.
How do you overcome some of this so you have the confidence to step up to the next level of fulfillment in your life?
Here are some ideas that might help:
1. Learn to recognize when the negative talk in your head starts
Becoming acutely aware of your own negative self-talk is important. Isn’t it odd that we are often our own worst enemies? Your thoughts are your own. Acknowledge what you are doing to yourself, learn to consciously hear it when it starts and then refuse to continue beating yourself up. Easier said than done, but worth the effort!
2. Train your brain to think and respond more positively
Our minds operate on the garbage in, garbage out principle. Feed your mind positive, affirming information and it will respond in kind. Have you ever tried positive affirmations? Don’t laugh until you’ve given it a shot. I’ve used sound recordings of positive affirmations and they seem to me to work. They are like a vitamin for your self-confidence!
3. Find yourself a personal cheerleader
When you set out to accomplish an important project, find yourself a cheerleader. I’m not talking about the kind that wears short skirts and skimpy tops either. You need someone that will reassure you and encourage you through those moments of doubt. This is why Alcoholics Anonymous uses sponsors. Everyone needs someone cheering them on when they are facing a crisis in self-confidence.
4. Make a detailed written plan
I don’t know exactly why, but somehow writing out a plan takes some of the scariness out of challenging situations. Maybe it takes some of the emotion of of it. Whatever it is, it works. It also serves as a way that your cheerleader can help hold you accountable. This positive pressure will push you beyond the fear that traps you in procrastination.
These steps will help you overcome feelings of insignificance
I have found that by following the tips above that I have been much more successful in achieving my goals. Every step gets me a little closer to the success I desire.
Don’t continue to let your thoughts run wild! Those whispers of doubt have a bigger impact than you think. Getting past them will unleash a level of success you haven’t previously experienced!
How do you overcome your feelings of insecurity and insignificance? Let me know!
Photo by *Zara
Hey Jeff,
This article has the potential to help a lot of people. This kind of clear and practical approach can really change a persons perspective about there own worth and value.
Read Jonathan – Advanced Life Skills´s latest article – When Your Inner Voice Speaks Do You Listen?
The personal cheerleader is a great idea.
I am very lucky. When I have these bouts of self doubt, my wife immediately cheers me up. She is my inhouse motivator and cheerleader.
Regards
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