Hello, question owner. I am Xiaoxiao Xi, a psychological counselor at Yi Psychology.
Repeatedly wavering, self-doubt, comparing oneself to others, exacerbating self-doubt, fearing regret, nervous and anxious, unable to make choices and decisions.
From the questioner's description, I will explore this issue with the questioner from two dimensions.
1. Compulsive repetition.
Repeating self-denial is a futile exercise in reinforcing a negative perception of oneself. It involves repeatedly seeking out the facts of one's perceived inability to cope with life experiences, which only serves to deepen the self-denial.
They are aware of it, yet they remain unable to break free from this cycle.
This phenomenon is caused by harsh treatment, accusations, and criticism during their growth process. However, this criticism is not objective and matter-of-fact; it is an attack on and belittlement of one's character.
Many parents unquestionably compare their children with other people's children, always saying that other people's children are good at this and that, and their own children are bad at this and that.
These seemingly insignificant little things and minor grievances, when constantly and frequently accumulated, will inevitably lead the child to doubt their self-worth. Each time there is a denial and the pain is repeated, it is tantamount to negative reinforcement of self-doubt.
2. This is driven by a narcissistic desire for perfection on a subconscious level.
Most people are driven to achieve perfection because their parents demanded it of them as children. Over time, the child internalizes these demands as their own, and perfectionism is born.
The perfect personality is usually deeply uncertain and inferior. They only maintain their self-esteem by trying to do everything perfectly.
Questioner, I am certain you have a lot of grievances and anger inside. It's like falling into a trap. The more you struggle to get out, the more painful it is.
I believe I have identified the reason behind your inability to make choices and decisions.
Your parents were used to helping you make decisions.
In such families, the parents have absolute authority and do not allow their children to say "no." They will try every means to prove that the children are wrong and must listen to them, even if the children have different opinions and voices.
Making choices and decisions means taking responsibility.
Every choice means getting one and giving up one, which will break the balance. Many people are mistaken in thinking that their strength is strong enough to support the consequences of their choices. Being torn between conflicting emotions and not making a choice means avoiding the consequences and responsibility that come with making a choice.
Conflict and indecision are patterns of interpersonal interaction.
If you don't make a choice, things will continue to develop, and someone else may make the choice for you. Passivity is a way to feel safer in interpersonal relationships, but it's not the best option.
If you don't make a choice, you can't show that you're not good enough.
You may face failure as long as you make a choice. Failure means you are not good enough, others will not like you, or you are worthless.
[How do you make the leap?
Everyone who has difficulty making choices and decisions has internal struggles and pain, parts they are reluctant to let go of, and parts they cannot let go of.
First, identify the real reasons and needs behind your fear of making a choice.
Start with "others."
If there is someone you really respect and admire who would give you advice, you know what they would say.
Start with yourself.
What happens if you fail? You can become more aware of this.
Tell me about a time in your past when you made a successful decision on your own. What did you do at the time?
You must live in the present, constantly improve your "sense of self-efficacy," and truly grow and become independent from within. Accept the outcome, whether good or bad.
Before making a decision, calm yourself down, slow down, and separate your emotions from your thoughts.
The questioner should read "The Courage to Be Disliked" a few more times to gain a deeper understanding and may find different interpretations.
I am confident that my answer will provide you with inspiration, and I wish you the best.
Comments
Making decisions is tough for me, and I often find myself secondguessing my thoughts. It feels like a cycle where I keep flipping back and forth, unsure if I'm making the right call. I can't help but look to others for guidance, which only deepens my uncertainty.
I struggle with decisionmaking, constantly torn between different options and unable to stick to one choice. The fear of future regret weighs heavily on me, and it's frustrating because this keeps happening over and over again, stirring up anxiety every single time.
The difficulty in choosing a path is overwhelming, especially when I start doubting myself after seeking advice from others. I worry that no matter what I decide, I'll end up wishing I had chosen differently, and this constant replay makes each new decision even harder.
It's really hard for me to feel confident about my choices. I get caught in a loop of selfdoubt and indecision, always referencing what others think. This pattern of hesitation creates so much stress, and I dread facing similar situations in the future.
Every time I need to make a choice, I waver and flipflop on my ideas. Relying on others' opinions seems to be the only way out, yet it just adds to my confusion. I'm terrified of making the wrong decision and living with the regret later on.