There’s a thin line between being humble and having low self-confidence.

Sometimes, we’re so wrapped up in our own anxieties and self-doubts that we don’t even realize how they’re affecting our actions.

Having low self-confidence can make us behave in ways that might not truly reflect who we are. It can make us hold back, second-guess ourselves, or even avoid opportunities that could bring us happiness.

In this article, I’m going to unpack 8 subtle things you might be doing because you have low self-confidence. Keep reading to find out if you’re unknowingly letting your insecurities dictate your actions.

1) Constantly apologizing

Ever notice yourself saying sorry more than necessary? This might be because of low self-confidence.

When we lack confidence, we tend to feel like we’re always in the wrong. This can lead to excessive apologies, even when it’s not our fault or there’s nothing to apologize for.

It’s one thing to apologize when you’ve made a mistake. But when “I’m sorry” becomes your go-to phrase for every situation, it can be a sign that you’re doubting your own worth.

It’s important to recognize this pattern and remember that you have every right to express your feelings and opinions without having to apologize for them. You’re not in the wrong simply for existing or taking up space.

So next time you find yourself about to say “I’m sorry”, pause for a moment and ask yourself if an apology is really necessary. It’s okay to stand up for yourself and your ideas. You deserve to be heard just as much as anyone else.

2) Avoiding eye contact

I remember a time when I couldn’t hold eye contact with anyone. I’d always lower my gaze or look away, especially during conversations.

Looking into someone’s eyes felt too intense, too revealing. It was as if they could see all my insecurities, all my self-doubt. So I avoided it.

What I didn’t realize back then was that my inability to maintain eye contact was a direct reflection of my low self-confidence.

Eye contact is a powerful form of non-verbal communication. It shows that you’re engaged, attentive, and confident. But when you’re lacking self-confidence, it can be a real struggle.

Once I recognized this behavior in myself, I started practicing making eye contact in small doses. At first, it was uncomfortable. But with time, it got easier and I started feeling more confident in my interactions.

This isn’t to say you should stare people down. It’s about finding a balance and showing through your body language that you believe in yourself and your words.

3) Overthinking every decision

Did you know that indecisiveness is often linked to low self-confidence? It’s true. When you’re lacking confidence, even the simplest decisions can feel like Mount Everest.

You might find yourself spending an inordinate amount of time weighing the pros and cons, considering every possible outcome, and worrying about making the wrong choice.

This overthinking can lead to analysis paralysis, where you’re so overwhelmed by the decision at hand that you end up not making any decision at all.

While it’s crucial to think things through, there’s a point where it becomes counterproductive. If you’re constantly second-guessing every choice you make, it might be time to take a step back and ask yourself why.

4) Shying away from compliments

Ever received a compliment and immediately tried to downplay it or deflect it? This is a common trait among those with low self-confidence.

When someone praises us, instead of accepting the compliment graciously, we might say something like “Oh, it was nothing” or “I just got lucky.” This is usually because we don’t believe in our own worth or abilities.

But here’s the thing: downplaying our achievements doesn’t make us humble, it just reinforces our lack of self-confidence.

The next time someone praises you, resist the urge to downplay it. Instead, simply say “Thank you,” and allow yourself to enjoy the recognition.

5) Fear of trying new things

Stepping out of our comfort zones can be a daunting task. Especially when you have low self-confidence, the fear of failure can stop you from trying anything new.

You might find yourself sticking to what you know, playing it safe, and avoiding any situation that could potentially lead to failure or embarrassment.

Growth and learning happen outside our comfort zones. It’s natural to feel nervous when trying something new, but don’t let that fear stop you.

Start by taking small steps. Try a new hobby, learn a new skill, or simply take a different route home. Each small victory will boost your confidence and prove to yourself that you can do more than you think.

6) Seeking validation from others

We all want to be accepted and loved. But when you have low self-confidence, this desire can turn into a constant search for validation from others.

You might find yourself going to great lengths to please others or doing things you don’t really want to do, just to fit in or be liked. Your happiness becomes dependent on other people’s approval, and their criticism can leave you shattered.

Your worth is not determined by what others think of you. You are enough, just as you are. You don’t need anyone else’s validation to prove your worth.

It can be challenging to break free from this cycle of seeking validation, but it’s an essential step towards building self-confidence. Start by recognizing your own achievements and celebrating them. Validate yourself. Love yourself.

The only person’s approval you truly need is your own. Because at the end of the day, it’s your life, and you should be living it for yourself, not for anyone else.

7) Hesitating to voice your opinions

Have you ever held back from expressing your thoughts or ideas, fearing they might be rejected or ridiculed? This is a common sign of low self-confidence.

I know how it feels. It’s like being on a stage with hundreds of people watching and all you want to do is disappear because you’re convinced that your voice doesn’t matter. But let me tell you something – it does.

Your voice matters. Your opinions matter. You bring a unique perspective to the table that no one else does. And yes, not everyone might agree with you, and that’s okay. Differences in opinion are what spark conversations and lead to growth.

8) Not believing in your own potential

Perhaps the most telling sign of low self-confidence is a lack of belief in your own potential. You may find yourself doubting your abilities, thinking you’re not good enough, or convincing yourself that you’ll never succeed.

You are capable. You are deserving. And you have the potential to achieve whatever you set your mind to.

Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Don’t let fear of failure keep you from trying. Believe in yourself, because you have every reason to.

You are more powerful than you realize. And once you start believing in yourself, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish.

Unveiling the power within

The human mind, a complex maze of thoughts, emotions, and self-perceptions, holds within it a boundless potential.

Low self-confidence is not a permanent state of being. It’s merely a mental roadblock, one that can be overcome with patience, understanding, and self-love.

We often don’t realize how our self-perceptions shape our behaviors and interactions. But once we do, we can work towards changing them. Recognizing these patterns is the first step towards that change.

Remember, your worth is not defined by the opinions of others, nor by your own self-doubt. You are inherently valuable, capable, and deserving of success and happiness.

So the next time you find yourself doubting your abilities or worth, remember this: You are more than your insecurities. You have the power to shape your own reality.

As Marianne Williamson wisely said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”

Unveil that power within you. Believe in yourself. Because you are indeed powerful beyond measure.