7 Signs of Low Self-Confidence and How to Fix Them

By Lilo Last updated Mar 12, 2025

7 Signs of Low Self-Confidence and How to Fix It

Self-confidence is the foundation of personal growth, success, and happiness. It gives us the courage to take risks, trust our abilities, and move forward despite challenges. But when confidence is low, even simple decisions can feel overwhelming.

If you often second-guess yourself, worry about others’ opinions, or struggle to set boundaries, you may be dealing with low self-confidence. The good news? Confidence can be built, strengthened, and restored with the right mindset and actions.

Let’s dive into the seven key signs of low self-confidence—and, more importantly, how to fix them.

1. You Feel Like You Can’t Do the Things You Want to Do

Low confidence can make you doubt your abilities, leading to procrastination and fear of failure. You might avoid opportunities, thinking you’re not skilled or “good enough” to succeed.

How to Fix It:

Start Small: Set achievable goals and celebrate every victory, no matter how small. Success builds confidence.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Remind yourself that everyone starts somewhere. You don’t have to be perfect—just willing to try.
Surround Yourself with Encouragement: Spend time with people who believe in you and push you to go after what you want.

“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt

2. You Constantly Worry About What Others Think

Do you overanalyze every interaction, fearing judgment or criticism? If you’re always seeking approval, it’s a sign that your self-worth depends too much on others.

How to Fix It:

Shift Your Focus: Instead of wondering what others think, ask yourself: “What do I think? What do I want?”
Set Boundaries: Not everyone’s opinion matters. Learn to trust yourself rather than relying on external validation.
Limit Social Comparison: Comparing yourself to others only fuels insecurity. Focus on your progress, not someone else’s highlight reel.

“You wouldn’t worry so much about what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

3. You Define Yourself by Your Past Mistakes

If you dwell on failures or feel trapped by past mistakes, it’s hard to build confidence. Self-doubt thrives on past regrets.

How to Fix It:

Forgive Yourself: No one is perfect. Treat your mistakes as lessons, not life sentences.
Stay Present: Practice mindfulness to stop dwelling on the past and focus on what you can control right now.
Rewrite Your Story: Instead of saying, “I failed,” say, “I learned.” Every experience shapes your growth.

“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” – Henry Ford

4. You Struggle to Enforce Boundaries

People-pleasing often comes from low self-worth—the fear of rejection or conflict makes it hard to say “no.”

How to Fix It:

Practice Assertiveness: You have the right to say no without feeling guilty.
Respect Your Needs: Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
Use Clear Communication: Instead of over-explaining, simply say: “I can’t commit to this right now.”

“You teach people how to treat you by what you allow, what you stop, and what you reinforce.” – Tony Gaskins

5. You Have Difficulty Making Decisions

Do you second-guess yourself constantly? Fear of making the wrong choice can lead to indecisiveness and dependence on others.

How to Fix It:

Trust Your Instincts: The more decisions you make on your own, the stronger your confidence grows.
Stop Seeking Perfection: No decision is ever 100% right—learn from every outcome.
Make Small Choices First: Practice deciding on small things (what to eat, what to wear) to build decision-making confidence.

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” – Suzy Kassem

6. You Blame Yourself for Everything

If your first reaction to a problem is to assume it’s your fault, it’s a sign of low self-worth. Constant self-blame can damage confidence and make you feel powerless.

How to Fix It:

Recognize What’s Not Your Fault: Not everything is your responsibility. Learn to separate facts from feelings.
Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Instead of “I always mess things up,” say, “I’m learning and improving every day.”
Celebrate Your Strengths: Write down three things you did well each day to shift your mindset.

“Be careful how you talk to yourself because you are always listening.” – Lisa M. Hayes

7. You Apologize Too Much

If you say “sorry” even when it’s not necessary, it could mean you feel unworthy of taking up space or having opinions.

How to Fix It:

Pause Before Apologizing: Ask yourself, “Did I actually do something wrong, or am I just afraid of conflict?”
Use Alternative Phrases: Instead of “Sorry I’m late,” say, “Thank you for waiting for me.”
Own Your Opinions: You don’t have to apologize for having boundaries or disagreeing with someone.

“Confidence is not ‘They will like me.’ Confidence is ‘I’ll be fine even if they don’t.'” – Unknown

The Journey to Building Self-Confidence

Self-confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s a skill you build over time. By recognizing these signs and making small daily changes, you can break free from self-doubt and embrace a more empowered, confident version of yourself.

Final Tips:

✔ Celebrate small wins—confidence grows with progress.
✔ Surround yourself with positive influences—cut out negativity.
✔ Take action despite fear—confidence comes from doing.

If you struggle with confidence, know that you’re not alone. The first step is awareness. The next step is action.

👉 Which of these signs resonates with you the most? Let’s talk in the comments!