Lower self-confidence
Have you noticed that your self-confidence has waned? Perhaps you find yourself doubting yourself, your body or what you are capable of more often. Things that used to come naturally now feel stressful or uncertain. This can have a significant impact on your work, social life, relationships and day-to-day choices. A loss of self-confidence rarely happens overnight. It develops gradually when you experience difficulties, find yourself stuck more often, or realise you can no longer do everything as you used to. This can be painful, especially if you are used to being independent, active or caring.
What do you notice?
Low self-confidence can manifest itself in many ways.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you are unsure of what you are capable of;
- you are less likely to try new things;
- you’re afraid of making mistakes;
- you avoid social situations;
- you are unsure about your body;
- you are seeking a great deal of confirmation;
- you are hard on yourself;
- you compare yourself with others;
- you take less initiative.
Sometimes others mainly notice that you become quieter or do less. For you, it may feel as though you are constantly doubting yourself.
What might be the reason for this?
Self-confidence can be undermined by symptoms, pain, tiredness, stress or changes in your life. If you frequently find that you are unable to do something, you may start to believe that you are less capable than you actually are.
Unpleasant experiences can also affect your self-confidence. Think, for example, of bullying, rejection, criticism, loss, a difficult relationship or other events that have made you feel insecure about yourself or your abilities.
Comments from others can also have an impact. Well-meaning help can sometimes make you feel as though you can no longer do anything for yourself. Or comments from others can make you feel insecure.
In addition, prolonged stress can cause you to focus mainly on what isn’t working. As a result, successes tend to fade into the background more quickly.
What can you do yourself?
It helps to rebuild your self-confidence in small steps. Not by forcing yourself, but by gaining achievable experiences.
For example, you could:
start with something small that is achievable;
- write down what does work;
- asking for help without handing everything over;
- gradually building up activities;
- reflect on previous difficult periods that you managed to get through.
Self-confidence often grows through taking action. Small steps count too.
When is it advisable to seek help?
It is wise to seek help if a lack of self-confidence is holding you back in your everyday activities. It is also a good idea to ask for help if you are avoiding social contact because of your lack of self-confidence, are feeling down or are experiencing a great deal of anxiety.
Please also seek help if you find yourself thinking increasingly negatively about yourself. You don’t have to deal with this on your own.
How Rondom can help
Together, we’ll look at how your self-confidence is under pressure and what steps are feasible. In doing so, we’ll take into account your symptoms, activities, thoughts and what matters to you.
Psychological Support can help to reduce uncertainty, negative thoughts and anxiety. A occupational therapist can help to rebuild activities. A physiotherapist can provide support when physical symptoms or uncertainty about movement are a factor. A lifestyle coach can help with rhythm, energy and recovery.
We look for small steps that will help you regain confidence in yourself and your daily life.
