People who lack self-belief often have these 10 personality traits

Self-belief is key to achieving our goals. It’s about trusting ourselves and our abilities.

However, some people find it hard to believe in themselves due to certain traits.

Let’s look at these traits and how we can turn them around to build self-belief. 

1. They’re Perfectionists

Those who lack self-belief are often perfectionists. They set incredibly high standards for themselves and are never satisfied until they meet them.

But here’s the twist – they usually never feel like they’ve hit the mark. No matter how well they do, they always believe they could have done better.

They’re their own harshest critics, which can lead to a lot of self-doubt.

If you know someone who’s always trying to make everything ‘just perfect’ and still isn’t happy, they might be struggling with self-belief.

And if that someone is you, remember it’s perfectly okay not to be perfect!

2. They’re Constant Worriers

Does your friend fret over every little thing? Are they always worrying about what could go wrong, even when everything seems fine? If so, they might be dealing with a lack of self-belief.

People who struggle with self-belief often tend to worry a lot. They’re always anticipating the worst and second-guessing their decisions.

This constant worrying can weigh them down, leaving them feeling uncertain about their abilities.

If you find yourself feeling anxious about every little thing, take a deep breath and remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes. After all, we’re all human. 

3. They Avoid Taking Risks

I used to be terrified of taking risks. The thought of stepping out of my comfort zone, trying something new, or going for something big, used to give me chills.

Why?

Because I was scared of failing.

And guess what?

That’s a common trait among people who lack self-belief.

They’re often risk-averse. They prefer to stick to what they know, avoiding anything that feels uncertain or unfamiliar.

They fear that if they try something new and fail, it’ll just confirm their self-doubt.

If you’re like how I used to be, always playing it safe, remember that taking a risk could lead to something great. And even if it doesn’t work out as planned, at least you’ll learn something new. 

4. They Seek Validation

Did you know that people who struggle with self-belief often seek validation from others? That’s right, they frequently look for external approval to confirm their worth.

These individuals find it hard to trust their own judgment and often rely on others to validate their decisions, ideas, or actions.

They might constantly ask for others’ opinions or feel uneasy when they don’t receive positive feedback.

Ppeople who seek excessive validation are more likely to feel rejected or neglected when they don’t receive it.

If you notice someone constantly seeking validation, they might be dealing with self-doubt. And if that’s you, remember, your opinion matters and you don’t need anyone else’s approval to feel worthy. 

5. They Downplay their Successes

Have you ever met someone who just brushes off their accomplishments like they’re no big deal? Even when they’ve achieved something amazing, they shrug it off as if it’s nothing.

That’s another common trait among people who lack self-belief.

These individuals often downplay their successes. They might attribute their achievements to luck, timing or help from others, rather than acknowledging their own hard work and skills.

It’s as if they’re scared to own their success because they don’t believe they truly deserve it.

If your heart is nodding along to this, remember: It’s okay to celebrate your achievements. You’ve worked hard for them and you absolutely deserve every bit of your success. 

6. They Struggle with Decision Making

I’ll be honest with you, making decisions used to be really tough for me. Whether it was choosing a meal at a restaurant or deciding on a career path, I’d get stuck.

I was always worried about making the wrong choice and disappointing myself or others.

And this is something people who lack self-belief often struggle with.

They find decision-making difficult because they’re worried about making mistakes or failing.

They might even avoid making decisions altogether, preferring to let others take the lead.

The truth is, it’s okay to make mistakes. Each decision, whether right or wrong, is a learning opportunity and a stepping stone towards growth.

7. They Fear Judgment

No one likes being judged. But for those who lack self-belief, this fear is amplified. They are constantly worried about what others think of them.

They obsess over every word they say, every action they take, paranoid that people are judging them.

And the truth is, this fear can be paralyzing. It can stop them from speaking their mind, from being themselves, from doing things they love.

It’s like they’re constantly walking on eggshells, always second-guessing themselves.

If this hits close to home, here’s a raw, honest truth: People are going to judge you no matter what.

You can’t control their thoughts or opinions. The only thing you can control is how much you let it affect you.

8. They’re Overly Apologetic

Ever noticed someone who says sorry way too often? Even when they haven’t done anything wrong?

That’s another trait common among those who lack self-belief.

These individuals have a tendency to apologize excessively, often for things they’re not even responsible for.

They may feel like they’re always in the wrong, or they’re trying to avoid conflict at all costs.

If you find yourself saying ‘sorry’ all the time, remember: You don’t have to apologize for existing, for having feelings, or for being you. Stand your ground and know your worth!

9. They Have a Hard Time Accepting Compliments

This one’s close to my heart. I used to find it really hard to accept compliments.

Whenever someone praised me, I’d instantly brush it off or downplay it. I just couldn’t believe that someone could genuinely appreciate something about me.

And this is something many people who lack self-belief struggle with. They find it difficult to accept compliments because they don’t believe they’re worthy of them.

They might think people are just being nice or that they’re exaggerating.

It’s okay to accept praise. You’ve earned it and you deserve it.

So, the next time someone gives you a compliment, try just saying ‘thank you’ and see how it feels. 

10. They Compare Themselves to Others

People who lack self-belief often compare themselves to others.

They look at their friends, colleagues, even strangers on social media, and think, “Why can’t I be more like them?”

They see their own life as a constant competition where they’re always falling behind.

And here’s the raw truth: comparisons are like quicksand; the more you indulge in them, the deeper you sink.

They rob you of your joy, your self-esteem, and your ability to see your own worth.

If this sounds all too familiar, here’s some honest advice: The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday.

You are unique, with your own strengths and weaknesses.

Embrace them, work on them, but never judge your worth based on someone else’s journey. Because remember, you’re doing just fine at your own pace. 

Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.

Lachlan Brown

I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder, and editor of Hack Spirit. I love writing practical articles that help others live a mindful and better life. I have a graduate degree in Psychology and I’ve spent the last 15 years reading and studying all I can about human psychology and practical ways to hack our mindsets. Check out my latest book on the Hidden Secrets of Buddhism and How it Saved My Life. If you want to get in touch with me, hit me up on Facebook or Twitter.

9 signs you’re becoming emotionally detached from your partner

People who are brave enough to confront their past usually have these 7 traits