We all have anxiety, and it can manifest itself in subtle ways that we don’t even realize. These behaviors, such as belittling others or constantly seeking approval, can be signs of deep-seated insecurities. Let’s explore how small things that most people aren’t aware of can cause anxiety and how it affects our relationships and self-esteem.
1. Don’t trust your friends or partner
If you can’t trust your friends or partner when they say they love you, what does that say about you? In some cases, even though it’s likely coming from a deeper place. This can appear to be anxiety.
2. Emotion monitoring
Do you ever ask your loved one if they’re okay or if they’re mad at you? When we feel anxious, we often observe other people’s emotions and energy. Trust, let go, and let your friends and family know when they’re upset.
3. Make fun of other people’s accomplishments
Have you ever made sarcastic comments or belittled someone else’s success? According to some users, this behavior reflects a need to belittle others in order to feel superior. It may be caused by anxiety. In reality, belittling others only reveals our insecurities and lack of confidence.
4. Never apologize
We all make mistakes, but refusing to apologize or take responsibility can be a sign of insecurity. One individual commented that this shows an unwillingness to admit shortcomings and weaknesses and can strain relationships by creating barriers to resolution and growth. Being able to sincerely apologize and take responsibility for your actions is a sign of emotional maturity and self-confidence.
5. Insulting your friends in front of others to look cool
Making derogatory comments or jokes at the expense of others, especially in public, can be a sign of anxiety. It is a desperate attempt to gain acceptance and recognition from others by putting them down. One commenter said true confidence comes from lifting others up, not tearing them down.
6. Putting others down and boasting
One user wrote that bragging about one’s accomplishments or possessions or belittling others in order to self-enhance is often a reflection of deep-seated insecurities. This is a way to compensate for inadequacies and seek external validation. Genuine confidence comes from within and does not require constant validation from others.
7. Explain how smart you are
Many people say that seeking approval by emphasizing your intelligence or knowledge can be a sign of anxiety. It is a way of seeking acceptance and approval from others rather than accepting your worth and being secure in your abilities. True confidence does not require constant external validation.
8. The need to constantly compare
Another person commented that comparing yourself to others and seeking external validation based on accomplishments, possessions, or appearance is a clear sign of anxiety. This is a never-ending cycle and can lead to inadequacy and self-doubt. Rather than comparing ourselves to others, we need to focus on our own journey and celebrate our unique qualities.
9. Sell your own NFTs
Using digital assets and social media presence to seek validation or profit through self-promotion can be a sign of insecurity. Instead of finding self-worth from within, we rely on recognition and attention from the outside. Genuine confidence comes from being true to yourself, not selling yourself as a product.
10. When you can’t accept constructive criticism
An inability to accept feedback or constructive criticism can be a sign of anxiety. It indicates fear of being judged or exposed as flawed and can lead to defensive or negative behavior. Accepting feedback as an opportunity to grow and learn shows emotional maturity and confidence.
11. Be loud and authoritative in every conversation.
Trying to dominate the conversation or always putting others first can be a sign of anxiety. This is a way to assert control and hide feelings of inadequacy. To gain real confidence, you don’t need to overwhelm others. It comes from feeling secure in yourself and respecting the opinions of others.
12. Obsession with hierarchy
Many added that trying to establish or assert superiority within a social hierarchy can be a sign of insecurity. This reflects a need to be seen as superior or valued by others, rather than a focus on equality and respect for all individuals. Authentic self-confidence requires not always asserting superiority in social dynamics, but instead embracing diversity and inclusion.
13. Post your own photos with tons of filters on
If your social media posts become increasingly reliant on filters and editing tools, it could be a sign of anxiety. It can indicate a lack of confidence in one’s natural appearance and a need to create a false image of perfection. Accepting who you really are, flaws and all, is a sign of genuine confidence.
14. When you get teased for achieving something.
A final user said that the need to mock or make fun of other people’s accomplishments can be a sign of deep-seated insecurities. It reflects feelings of jealousy and envy, and attempts to minimize the success of others in order to better one’s own. Celebrating others’ accomplishments without feeling threatened means emotional safety and confidence.
If you’re doing this, it’s important to think about why you’re doing it. Are you seeking external validation? Are you trying to compensate for feelings of inadequacy? Recognizing and addressing these insecurities is the first step to building authentic confidence. Instead of putting others down, try to lift them up.
Embrace your unique qualities and accomplishments without needing constant validation from others. Learn to accept constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Be true to yourself and don’t compare yourself to others.
