Remember when your parents told you as a kid, “You are unique and there’s no one else in the world like you”?

Well, they were right.

We all are different, each with our own quirks and characteristics. However, sometimes, the way we perceive ourselves can be… less than positive.

Now here’s the kicker.

A lot of us, despite having a low self-worth, are pretty good at hiding it. We slip on a mask of confidence and carry on, hoping nobody will notice the insecurities lurking beneath.

If you’re sitting there thinking, “That sounds like me,” or maybe you’re just curious about what kind of subtle behaviors these individuals might display… stick around.

This article is all about understanding those unassuming indicators that suggest someone might be wrestling with low self-esteem while doing an Oscar-worthy job of keeping it under wraps.

And remember, this isn’t a blame game. It’s about awareness and understanding because sometimes recognizing the problem is the first step to solving it.

1) Overly concerned about what others think

This is a big one.

People with low self-worth often stress over how others perceive them. They’re constantly worrying about making a good impression and are highly sensitive to criticism (or even perceived criticism).

Here’s the thing: it’s not just about being a people-pleaser. It’s a deep-rooted fear of disappointing others or being judged negatively. They might agree with everyone else’s opinion, even if it contradicts their own, just to avoid conflict.

And the irony?

Most people are too busy with their own lives to scrutinize others as much as we fear. So, if you find yourself constantly worrying about what others think, it might be worth digging a little deeper into why that is.

2) Apologizing excessively

So, let’s talk about apologies.

I remember a time when I couldn’t go through a conversation without saying “I’m sorry” at least once. I’d apologize for things that weren’t even my fault or for situations that were out of my control. Sounds familiar?

Here’s what I learned.

This habit often stems from low self-worth. We feel the need to apologize because we believe we’re constantly messing up or inconveniencing others. We fear that our actions (or even our mere existence) may cause trouble, and so we say “sorry” as a preemptive strike.

But here’s the truth: excessive apologizing not only dilutes the value of your apologies but also can make you seem less confident.

It’s okay to apologize when you’re in the wrong, but remember, you don’t owe an apology for simply being yourself.

3) Neglecting personal needs

Let’s get real for a moment.

Sometimes, we put ourselves at the bottom of our priority list. We become so engrossed in helping others, meeting deadlines, or simply staying afloat in the sea of life that we forget to take care of ourselves.

Why?

Often, it’s because we feel we don’t deserve it. That our needs are not as important as those of others. That we’re not worth the time or effort.

We hide it well behind a façade of selflessness, but underneath, it’s a different story.

But here’s a thought. Your needs matter. You matter. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s essential.

And acknowledging this doesn’t diminish your worth, it enhances it. So go ahead, put yourself first sometimes. It’s more than okay—it’s necessary.

4) Seeking validation constantly

We all like a little pat on the back now and then, right?

But what happens when this need for approval becomes a constant quest? When we start measuring our worth based on likes, views, or positive comments from others?

Well, it’s a classic sign.

People who have low self-worth but hide it well often seek constant validation. They need others to reassure them of their worth because they struggle to see it themselves. They fear that if they don’t receive external approval, they aren’t good enough.

The truth is, you are enough, just as you are. Your worth isn’t determined by the external world but by your internal values, beliefs, and actions. The only validation you truly need is your own.

So next time you find yourself seeking approval, take a moment to question why. It could be an eye-opening experience.

5) Avoiding compliments like the plague

Most people love giving others compliments, yet some of us have a hard time accepting even one. We brush them off, downplay them, or even outright deny them. We feel embarrassed, awkward, or undeserving.

Sounds strange?

Well, it’s more common than you think. People with low self-worth often struggle to accept compliments. They believe they’re not worthy of praise, and hence, when they receive it, they don’t know how to react.

But here’s something to consider.

Compliments are gifts of words. They’re meant to be accepted graciously—not brushed aside or buried under a pile of self-doubt.

When someone pays you a compliment, try simply saying “Thank you”. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but with practice, it can become a step towards embracing your worth.

6) Plagued by perfectionism

Perfectionism. The double-edged sword of high standards and relentless self-criticism.

Does this resonate with you? Are you someone who’s never quite satisfied with your work, always seeing room for improvement, always striving for that elusive ‘perfect’?

If so, you’re not alone.

Many of us who struggle with low self-worth fall into the trap of perfectionism. We set unrealistically high expectations for ourselves, believing we must meet them to be worthy.

But remember that you are human, and it’s okay to make mistakes. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary. It’s through these errors and missteps that we grow and learn.

Let go of that unattainable ideal of perfection and embrace the beauty of your imperfections. They make you uniquely… you.

7) Struggling to express personal feelings

This is perhaps the most poignant of all.

Those battling low self-worth often find it difficult to express their emotions openly. They fear their feelings are invalid, or that expressing them would burden others. They put on a brave face, hide their true emotions, and soldier on.

But let’s get one thing straight. Your feelings are valid. Every single one of them.

You have the right to express them, to be heard, and to be acknowledged. Concealing them doesn’t make them disappear; it only adds to your emotional baggage.

So, speak up. Share your emotions, your fears, your joys, your worries. You’re not a burden; you’re a human being with complex emotions, and that’s perfectly okay.

Embracing the journey

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these signs, remember—you’re not alone.

Low self-worth is a common struggle, often hidden beneath smiles and reassuring nods. It’s easy to wear the mask of confidence and pretend we’re just fine.

But acknowledging these behaviors is the first step towards change.

It’s not about overnight transformation. It’s about small shifts in perspective, tiny victories over self-doubt. Each time you catch yourself dismissing a compliment or suppressing your feelings, pause.

Ask yourself — “Am I doing this out of self-love or self-doubt?”

This self-awareness paves the way for healthier patterns. You start realizing your worth isn’t defined by external validation but by your own acceptance of self.

Remember, you are enough just as you are. Your feelings, your thoughts, your dreams – they’re all valid. Your worth isn’t determined by perfection or approval but by your authenticity and resilience.

And as you navigate this path of self-discovery, be gentle with yourself. Because sometimes, the hardest part of the journey is believing you’re worthy of the trip.