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How to cope with self-doubt when one cannot accept it, and it seems unchangeable?

high school math class self-esteem confidence psychological burden
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How to cope with self-doubt when one cannot accept it, and it seems unchangeable? By Anonymous | Published on December 18, 2024

In 2007, I was in my first year of high school. There was a math class where I couldn't keep up with others, and I was disheartened. It seemed like overnight, I realized I was inferior to others.

Before my winter vacation, I read a book. It said that people with low self-esteem are of no use, and low self-esteem is equal to failure. My logic was that if self-confidence is the key to success, then to be confident, one must eliminate low self-esteem.

I could even accept being inferior and feeling humble about myself. What I couldn't accept was low self-esteem. I could accept any negative trait in humans, but not low self-esteem.

Over the years, because of low self-esteem, my life has been on pause. After graduating from college, I stopped everything. I even thought I couldn't get married or find a job, and I had to change that.

Many years have slipped by in vain. Although I had read "The Power of Self-Esteem," I couldn't change my view on low self-esteem. I felt it was a huge psychological burden on my heart.

I couldn't accept the fact that I had low self-esteem, and also, I didn't believe that everyone has low self-esteem. If everyone had it, I wouldn't have changed. At the time, I saw others as cheerful, with no trace of low self-esteem.

Oh, all these years, I have spent my energy fighting against low self-esteem, wasting my life.

Savannah Baker Savannah Baker A total of 5071 people have been helped

Dear question asker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to respond to your inquiry.

From the questioner's description, it can be seen that the questioner's inferiority complex began in high school. This is evidenced by the fact that once he was unable to compare favorably with other students in a math class, he fell into a state of inferiority. Now, many years later, has he been trying hard to fight against the inferiority complex that has taken hold in his psyche? First, provide the questioner with a supportive gesture, such as a pat on the shoulder, to give him a little strength so that he can face himself directly.

The negative emotion of inferiority is a normal emotion that many people experience on numerous occasions. For example, during the awkward period of adolescence, when one's physical appearance undergoes changes following childbirth, or when one's abilities in a particular area are not as advanced as those of others.

When an individual experiences feelings of inferiority, it is important to recognize that everyone encounters challenges and possesses knowledge that they have not yet fully acquired. It is not uncommon for individuals to feel inferior when they perceive themselves to be less capable than others in certain areas. At such times, it is crucial to gain an accurate understanding of one's strengths.

A correct understanding of oneself is fundamental to the development of self-esteem and a positive, well-functioning mindset.

In light of the questioner's inquiry on this platform, I will proffer a few straightforward recommendations with the hope that the questioner may cultivate a more positive outlook and interrupt the cycle of negative thinking that perpetuates feelings of inferiority.

It is important to understand the origin of these negative thoughts and the circumstances that trigger them. Once these factors have been identified, it is possible to stop the negative thoughts before they have a negative impact on the individual.

It is essential to identify and halt the progression of negative thoughts.

It is essential to gain an accurate understanding of the origin of negative thoughts and the factors that trigger them. Additionally, it is crucial to identify the emotional state that arises when such thoughts emerge.

It is essential to ascertain the root causes of these negative thoughts in order to identify and rectify them in the future. To illustrate, the questioner indicated that the negative thoughts associated with perceived deficiencies in mathematical abilities originate from a specific source.

One must inquire of oneself, "Am I truly not as proficient as him, or am I not as proficient as the majority of people?" This line of questioning may be indicative of an inferiority complex.

Are you experiencing feelings of sadness or anger?

What is the emotional state of the individual posing the question?

One might inquire as to why the questioner feels the need to compare themselves to that outstanding individual. Is it not the questioner's inner desire to become as outstanding as him?

If one is unable to achieve the same level of excellence as another, there is a risk of developing an inferiority complex. In such instances, it is crucial to either halt the comparison or redirect one's attention.

Furthermore, it is essential to address and rectify any negative thoughts that may be hindering progress.

To illustrate, the questioner has a negative thought, namely that he is not as proficient in mathematics as others. This can be modified to read, "I am only not as proficient in trigonometry as him, but I am more proficient in calculations than him."

One might consider an alternative perspective: despite not being as proficient in mathematics as the individual in question, one possesses unique abilities that set them apart. It is essential to address negative thoughts, acknowledge the physical differences in finger lengths, and replace these thoughts with constructive ones. It is crucial to avoid allowing feelings of inferiority to take root in one's heart.

It is recommended that you record your strengths.

It is recommended that greater attention be paid to one's strengths, that a state of inferiority be avoided, and that time be set aside for research into one's strengths and abilities, with a view to listing them.

When the questioner experiences feelings of inferiority, it is recommended to revisit the aforementioned list and recall the numerous ways in which one is exceptional. For instance, one might note that their physical capabilities are exemplary when it comes to swimming, enabling them to express affection towards loved ones or to persevere through the demands of daily life.

Engage in activities that facilitate relaxation.

It is recommended that individuals engage in activities that promote positive affect, such as exercise, listening to music, singing, watching movies, or other activities that elicit a sense of well-being. It is similarly advised that they partake in physical activities that are enjoyable and beneficial to their physical health.

One might select running as a form of exercise due to its energizing effects or opt for yoga as a means of relaxation. In either case, the individual will develop a sense of appreciation and gratitude for the capabilities of the body.

It is also recommended that these activities be included on the list of advantages previously mentioned.

It is also recommended to seek support from family and friends.

It is advisable to seek support from family and friends.

Opening up to individuals with whom one is intimately acquainted about one's innermost thoughts and feelings can prove beneficial in alleviating feelings of inferiority. Those experiencing such feelings may find it helpful to confide in trusted friends or family members about their inferiority complex and seek their support.

In the event that certain friends consistently exhibit negative attitudes or impose undue pressure, it is advisable to limit one's interactions with them, even if they are family members. It is beneficial to prioritize spending time with family and friends who demonstrate positive regard for one's genuine self and offer support.

It is recommended that the individual seek psychological intervention.

It is recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified psychological counselor to address your concerns. For individuals experiencing psychological distress, it is advised to consult with a trained professional to facilitate effective problem-solving. Seeking guidance from a mental health professional is a beneficial approach, particularly when the inferiority complex is significantly impacting one's daily functioning.

It is not uncommon to experience feelings of inferiority. A competent counselor can provide constructive feedback, assist in developing an accurate self-perception, assist in overcoming an inferiority complex, rebuild confidence, and facilitate a positive transition to a new phase of life.

It is my hope that this response will prove beneficial to the individual who posed the question.

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Elizabeth Castro Elizabeth Castro A total of 3490 people have been helped

Dear questioner, Thank you for taking the time to ask your question.

After reading your question, I would be very interested in discussing it with you further.

1. Regarding the difficulty in accepting inferiority.

Regarding "In 2007, I was in the first year of high school. Sometimes I would get really frustrated when I couldn't compete with others in math class, and it seemed like overnight I realized I was no better than everyone else." and "I read a book before winter vacation. It suggested that people with low self-esteem are not as valuable as they could be, and that low self-esteem can lead to challenges in life."

"I read a book before winter vacation. It suggested that people with low self-esteem may find it challenging to succeed in life.

I believe that self-confidence is a key factor in achieving success. To become self-confident, it's essential to address any feelings of inferiority.

"I can even accept self-judgments like being inferior to others and being humble. I just can't accept an inferiority complex. I can accept any kind of negative human trait, except an inferiority complex."

Let's first try to understand your situation. You may have found yourself in a challenging position during your freshman year of high school, where you felt less confident in your mathematical abilities. It's understandable if you've come to believe that your struggles in math may have contributed to your current circumstances.

Perhaps it could be said that because we are not as good at mathematics as others, we tend to dwell on the feeling of being inferior and experience a sense of failure.

Perhaps we should ask ourselves whether we really have to accept inferiority. Is it not okay to allow ourselves not to accept it?

2. With regard to the idea that in order to be confident, one must eliminate inferiority.

With regard to the questioner's view that confidence and inferiority are mutually exclusive, could I suggest that this may be because you perceive them as being at odds with one another?

Perhaps you believe that confidence and inferiority are mutually exclusive. For instance, if you currently feel inferior, you may think that you cannot continue to succeed.

I believe it may be helpful to consider what you mentioned in the question: "After graduating from university, I stopped and did nothing. I even thought I couldn't get married or find a job, and that I had to change him."

I believe this is actually a game played by the brain. It could be said that the biggest prison in the world is the prison of the brain.

It can feel as though you're trapped and unable to escape.

It could be said that without inferiority, there is no concept of self-confidence. While inferiority and self-confidence may appear to be two sides of the same coin, they may in fact be one and the same.

Many people, in the game of the brain, tend to differentiate between inferiority and self-confidence, as seen in some success theories. This may be due to certain limitations in their perception.

It could be said that low self-esteem and self-confidence are two sides of the same coin. Without low self-esteem, it is possible that self-confidence may not be as strong as it could be.

It could be said that without good, there is no bad. This way of thinking in terms of black and white, good and bad, is what we refer to as dualism.

I believe that to break out of this box, it would be helpful to view the world and one's own self-esteem and confidence as a whole. For instance, the questioner has been so confident and determined about their own inferiority for so many years. Could this also be viewed as a kind of confidence?

3. Perhaps it would be beneficial to press the pause button on life for a moment.

For many years, I have been held back from fully embracing my potential due to an inferiority complex. After graduating from university, I experienced a period of stagnation, where I felt unable to take the next step, whether it was getting married or finding a job. I even felt that I needed to change him to make things happen.

I feel that I may have spent a significant number of years of my life in a way that could have been more productive. I have read about self-confidence and self-transcendence, but I still find it challenging to fully embrace the concept of self-confidence. I feel a sense of psychological burden weighing on my heart.

I find it difficult to accept that I have an inferiority complex, and I don't believe everyone has it. If everyone has it, I won't change. At that time, I saw that everyone else was elated, and I wondered if there might be a little shadow of inferiority complex there.

"It is unfortunate that so much energy has been expended in fighting against inferiority, which has ultimately resulted in a waste of life.

From what I can see, you are very confident in your beliefs and actions in demonstrating the impact of low self-esteem on success. Could I ask if you perceive it?

Psychology, as a scientific discipline, suggests that we are all born with low self-esteem. However, you, the questioner, are also confidently questioning this through your actions. This could be seen as a kind of confidence.

If I might humbly offer one more perspective, I would like to share the views of evolutionary psychology on inferiority. Our human ancestors, precisely because of inferiority, then discovered their own shortcomings, and because of these shortcomings, they constantly improved themselves, which led to their continuous reproduction, survival, and evolution.

It can be surmised, then, that those who survived were the descendants of these ancestors with the inferiority gene. It may, therefore, be posited that we, the descendants, all have the inferiority gene in our genes.

The aim is also to strive for continual improvement in the context of any perceived shortcomings and to work towards developing self-confidence.

It could also be said that inferiority and self-confidence are definitions that have been created by humans. As a result, how we live and define certain traits may be influenced by these definitions.

I hope the above answers are helpful to you. I wish you well in your journey.

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Julia Julia A total of 9828 people have been helped

Dear question asker, My name is Lamb, and I'm here to help.

I have carefully reviewed your inquiry and identified key areas of concern. In this response, I aim to present a few points from my perspective that I believe will be beneficial for you.

First and foremost, it is imperative to recognize that feelings of inferiority can be a debilitating force. During your high school years, you expressed feelings of inadequacy due to your inability to match the academic performance of your peers in mathematics.

It is important to recognize that an individual's abilities are influenced by a multitude of factors. I initially struggled with mathematics during my high school years, pursuing a major in the arts with a strong inclination towards that field. However, I did not allow this to define my self-perception. Despite my initial challenges with mathematics, I excelled in Chinese language studies.

It is important to recognize that no one is omniscient or possesses superhuman abilities. We all have limitations and imperfections. Instead of dwelling on minor issues, it is crucial to focus on future-oriented actions and strive to identify and leverage our strengths.

Secondly, you stated that you have chosen to take a step back due to an inferiority complex. This is an unfavorable decision. I am unaware of your personal history, but I would like to assure you that you are unique and possess special qualities. There is no disadvantage in embracing imperfection. We only live once, and it is important to prioritize our own well-being.

Do not allow an inferiority complex to impede your personal charisma.

Ultimately, you assert that everyone appears happy and discredit the notion that others may be inferior. You imply that your own optimism and positive demeanor mask deeper personal issues.

Some individuals simply conceal their inferiority and refrain from allowing it to affect them. Ultimately, life is about looking forward. There is no reason to be inferior. Parents are alive and healthy.

This is already a significant advantage. Do not allow any obstacle to prevent you from moving forward.

This is not an optimal situation.

Pursue excellence through diligent effort and consistent practice. When you have achieved the necessary level of expertise, your current mindset may evolve.

Therefore, it is crucial to invest significant effort into your studies and pursue self-improvement. Knowledge is the key to transforming negative perceptions into positive ones.

Take the initiative to speculate and explore creative solutions. Make excellence a habit that will always live in your heart.

I hope that the original poster is happy every day and has a great day!

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Erica Erica A total of 2001 people have been helped

Good day!

As a heart exploration coach, I believe that learning is a valuable process that can enrich our lives.

From your description, I can sense a deep sense of inferiority, doubt, negativity, irritability, pain, and helplessness.

It seems that you are having difficulty accepting the challenges that arise from an inferiority complex. Without going into too much detail, I would like to offer three suggestions that you might find helpful.

If I may make a suggestion, perhaps you could try to understand yourself and comfort yourself a little.

I believe that doing so may help to make your heart feel slightly lighter, which in turn may help you to think about what to do next.

You mentioned that in 2007, when you were in high school, there were times when you found mathematics challenging and you experienced frustration. You then came to realise that you were not as accomplished as others in this area and since then you have been unable to accept this. You believe that you can only start a new life after addressing this challenge. After graduating from university, you have not yet had the opportunity to do so, and you have perhaps felt that your life has been somewhat wasted. You want to change, but you are also experiencing discomfort. It is understandable that you feel this way, because everyone wants to become confident. Many people can also become discouraged by a single setback and become unable to get back up. So you can try to understand yourself and comfort yourself. "Seeing" that less confident version of yourself fighting against your challenge will give you extra mental energy to think about other things. Otherwise, your mind will always be filled with a sense of challenge.

Furthermore, I believe that allowing yourself to try to understand and accept yourself will make it possible to promote change in the status quo. I understand that this may sound contradictory, but I believe it is important to consider that change is based on allowing for no change.

If I might make one more suggestion, it would be to try to view your own state in a more rational way.

It may be helpful to consider that rational thinking can assist in gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and of reality.

To rationally accept your shortcomings, you may find it helpful to consider the following three steps:

It might be helpful to remember that everyone has a sense of inferiority to some extent, and that everyone's attitude towards it is different.

In your description, you said you don't believe everyone is inferior. I respect that perspective, but I do want to suggest that everyone will be dissatisfied with themselves in some way. This can lead to a sense of inferiority because no one is perfect. It's important to recognize that this is a natural part of the human experience.

It's interesting to note that people who exude joy often don't dwell on perceived shortcomings. They recognize that everyone has areas for improvement and are not discouraged by occasional setbacks. Instead, they view these experiences as opportunities to work harder and grow. Their positive outlook and resilience contribute to a sense of joy and fighting spirit.

Secondly, it is important to recognise that while inferiority can be overcome, this requires a certain level of action, rather than simply relying on words alone.

You mentioned that after graduating from university, you felt like you were at a standstill. It seems like you believe that you can only truly thrive in your work and in life once you've overcome your feelings of inadequacy. At this stage, it's important to recognise that to overcome these feelings, you need to take action, rather than remaining passive. Without taking steps to address them, it's likely that you'll continue to feel like you're not quite meeting your full potential.

It is also important to understand that a person's self-esteem and self-confidence are not mutually exclusive, but can coexist. We all have moments where we feel more self-deprecating and moments where we feel more confident. This is the state of life we see in those unassuming people. They have a dynamic balance in their self-evaluation, not an absolute singularity. In order to become confident, it is helpful to accept that you are not always doing well. Then, you can try your best to take action to become better, thereby enhancing your self-confidence.

It might also be said that the process of a person's growth is the process of gradually overcoming inferiority (not doing well in a certain area or a changeable shortcoming).

It is important to accept that some things are beyond our control and to focus on the things we can change.

Thirdly, it is important to remember that life is not a competition with others, but rather a journey of self-discovery and growth.

Perhaps we should reconsider our pursuit of superiority. Rather than aiming to be better than others, we could strive to become the best version of ourselves.

It might be helpful to remember that it's not always helpful to compare your weaknesses with other people's strengths.

After understanding this, you may have a different perspective on the fact that you became inferior and depressed when you found out in your freshman year of high school that you were no match for others in mathematics. It's possible that the other person was exceptionally good at mathematics, while you were not. You may also find that you are good at many subjects, and there are many students who are not as good as you. However, they are not depressed because they understand that they need to work hard to make up for their shortcomings. Otherwise, they may lag even further behind others. The ultimate goal of their hard work is to grow themselves.

Perhaps, if you look at it rationally like this, you may find that various negative emotions in your heart are resolved.

If I might make one more suggestion, it would be to focus on yourself and consider what you can do to feel better.

When you take a step back and look at your situation with a clear mind, you may also be able to identify ways to improve it. At this point, you can focus on yourself and try your best to do a good job.

Perhaps you could start by looking at the good things about yourself. It seems like you might feel that you don't have any advantages, but I'm sure you'll find that everyone has them, and you're no exception. From what you've said, I can see that you're not a bad speaker. The fact that you've come here for help shows that you're motivated. The fact that you were able to get into university also shows that you have a certain ability to learn. It's important to remember that most people in the country can't get into university, so you see, there are still a lot of bright spots in you. In this way, maybe you can accept that you're not good enough sometimes, and slowly become more confident.

You might also consider asking those around you who you think are happy and carefree how they view their own shortcomings (they must have them, because no one is perfect), which could also help you change your way of thinking and in turn make you feel better.

You might also consider reading some related books. You mentioned that you read "Inferiority and Transcendence." I respectfully suggest that you read it again, as you may have a different opinion after doing so. You may also find it helpful to read "The Courage to Be Disliked." It may assist you in accepting yourself.

You might also consider finding a job first and doing it, because overcoming inferiority requires action. As an adult, it's important to take responsibility for your own life. It's helpful to support yourself first. After you start working, you may also see that everyone has a sense of inferiority, but different attitudes towards it make all the difference. This could also help improve your mood. It's good to remember that you can do something to change the current situation.

As you begin to take action, you may find that negative emotions in your heart are gradually resolved. It is often the case that taking action can help to overcome these emotions. This process may also lead you to accept your own limitations and embrace your true self.

I hope my answer is helpful to you. If you would like to communicate further, you are welcome to click on "Find a coach" at the bottom, and I will be happy to communicate with you one-on-one.

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Lyra Lyra A total of 1748 people have been helped

Greetings,

The host began by introducing themselves and explaining their role on the platform.

My name is Zeng Chen, and I am a heart coach. I have carefully read the post and can discern the internal conflict and anxiety you are experiencing from the content.

Furthermore, it is evident that the individual in question has demonstrated courage in articulating their concerns and pursuing assistance on this platform. This initiative will undoubtedly facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of oneself, enabling the individual to make necessary adjustments and achieve a more optimal state of self-awareness.

Subsequently, I will present my observations and thoughts in the aforementioned post, which may assist the original poster in developing a more nuanced understanding of themselves.

1. Resisting a problem may serve to perpetuate it.

After reading the original poster's post, I was prompted to recall a story. In this narrative, the boy is depicted as reticent and introverted, a quality that aligns with his family's perception of him.

Despite the mother's efforts, including medical intervention and other strategies, the boy's behavior at home continued to deteriorate. However, an unexpected turn of events occurred when the boy's sister, upon visiting his school, was approached by a classmate who inquired about her brother's romantic interests.

The sister did not believe the assertion that her brother was in love because she believed that no girl would be interested in him. She expressed her thoughts on the matter. However, the answer she received was that her brother was cheerful and talkative.

Despite remaining unconvinced, the sister sought corroboration from several of her brother's classmates. Eventually, she came to accept the assertion, particularly given that her sister was already engaged in academic studies in psychology at the time.

She came to understand that it was precisely because the family collectively perceived her younger brother to have a problem that he had never spoken up at home. Given that her younger brother felt that speaking was his fundamental right, the more he was instructed to speak, the less inclined he would be to do so.

The narrative thus offers an insight into the phenomenon whereby the act of attempting to resolve a problem may in fact serve to reinforce its very existence. This can be likened to the situation of two individuals engaged in a physical contest, where the exertion of force by one party inevitably elicits a corresponding reaction from the other.

Consequently, the individual in question expressed a desire to eliminate his inferiority so that he could become confident and engage in activities without the potential for this very inferiority to be reinforced.

2. Inferiority and inferiority complex are not synonymous.

The original poster indicated in the post that he does not believe that everyone has an inferiority complex. In fact, Adler's theory posits that everyone has an inferiority complex, but the inferiority complex he posits is somewhat distinct from the one commonly understood.

His understanding of inferiority is that it is a state of pursuing superiority and striving for self-improvement. However,

A rudimentary grasp of the inferiority complex entails the exploitation of one's perceived inadequacies as a rationale for inaction.

For example, an individual may believe that their inability to succeed is due to their low education level. In such a case, the original poster must differentiate between a lack of self-confidence and an inferiority complex.

3. It may be possible to live with problems.

From the original poster's account, it is evident that he is unable to accept his perceived inferiority. Following his graduation from university, he ceased pursuing any meaningful activities. He even contemplated that he would be unable to marry or secure employment, and that he needed to alter his fundamental self. However, it is important to note that the concept of absolute health is a fallacy. Many individuals who have achieved notable success have, at one point or another, exhibited behaviours that could be perceived as unhealthy.

For example, Steve Jobs was said to have a short temper and a troubled love life. However, he was the founder of Apple.

It can be reasonably deduced, therefore, that the majority of individuals are, in fact, living with at least one minor issue. The original poster is encouraged to consider this and to experience the difference it may make to their situation.

Furthermore, she must await a state of absolute perfection before taking any action.

This topic also brings to mind a narrative. A young woman who was never particularly thin was subjected to taunts by numerous individuals, which led to a profound sense of insecurity.

This was particularly the case following her enrollment at the university, where she found herself unable to resist the allure of palatable sustenance. Over time, this led to the development of an eating disorder, characterized by periods of excessive consumption.

Subsequently, she would induce vomiting. Gradually, she developed an aversion to looking at herself in the mirror, perceiving herself as a "monster."

As a result, she experienced an exacerbation of her anxiety. Despite her desire to overcome the habit, she was unsuccessful in doing so, which led to a further deterioration in her eating patterns.

As a result, she is experiencing significant distress and feels helpless in her inability to halt this maladaptive behavior. It is imperative to resume a normal life trajectory.

Even her intimate acquaintances were encouraging her to seek assistance. Consequently, she was led to perceive that she was grappling with a significant issue.

Subsequently, her cousin brought up the topic, stating that she had previously exhibited similar tendencies but had since managed to overcome them. She asserted that, provided it does not occur with excessive frequency, such behavior does not pose a significant health risk.

Subsequently, she came to understand that she was not the only individual to have experienced these difficulties. Her cousin, too, had grappled with this issue and had subsequently achieved a state of contentment. It transpired that she, too, could overcome this challenge without undue haste, provided that she reduced the frequency of its occurrence. This was a course of action within her capacity.

Consequently, she gradually decreased the frequency. Rather than exerting excessive pressure on herself, she learned to accommodate the issue.

The narrative illustrates that it is possible to coexist with problems and attempt to manage them constructively. It suggests that the majority of the pressure experienced is not the fundamental issue, but rather the tendency to fixate on finding a solution.

It is my hope that these resources will prove beneficial and inspirational to you. Should you have any inquiries, you are encouraged to utilize the "Find a Coach" feature to facilitate further communication and collaborative growth. By doing so, we can collectively address these challenges.

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Xeniara Xeniara A total of 4729 people have been helped

Hello!

I understand your feelings of fear, anxiety, and pain. You have fallen into a black hole of inferiority and cannot extricate yourself. I give you a big hug to bring you strength!

I am prone to feeling inferior, and I often do. It is a tendency of my personality.

I believe the difference between my understanding of inferiority and yours is that I will have my own shortcomings. I may feel the painful frustration of being inferior to others in this area, but I can think of other areas where I can gain psychological compensation.

I may not be the best at math, and my grades may not be the highest in the class, but I'm excellent at Chinese, I write excellent essays, and my English is pretty good. I am not worthless.

When I feel inferior, I know I don't need to compare my weaknesses with other people's strengths. I need to see that I have advantages in other areas. This makes me feel better and gives me the strength to move on, to develop my strengths and find a little support for my self-confidence.

I believe others are right: everyone has inferiority complexes. After all, everyone has shortcomings and strengths.

People who are often in a state of inferiority have likely been defeated by inferiority at some point. They have then become accustomed to this way of thinking and have been unable to identify an opportunity to break this pattern.

When we get used to using inferiority to escape from reality, it becomes a tool that allows us to benefit from it. For example, because of inferiority, we don't have to do anything, just let time pass by, and subconsciously, we feel that inferiority is quite good.

You've spent years fighting against inferiority, and I think you're right. Fighting against inferiority is the root of the problem. You need to let go of this fight, accept yourself as someone who is prone to inferiority, and stop trying to change this inferiority. Just let your inferior self do the things you like and are good at, or things within your abilities. You'll see that you have another side to you from these things.

Not everyone eliminates all difficulties before setting off. They discover various difficulties once they have set off. Most people grow and gain confidence little by little while overcoming difficulties.

Do things and take action. That's the most important thing you can do to get out of the loop of what you call inferiority. Come on!

You can do it!

I'm confident this reply from Hongyu will be helpful. Thank you for asking!

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Addison Grace Ross Addison Grace Ross A total of 4536 people have been helped

What has the questioner experienced that makes him so fond of "confidence-and-mild-self-doubt-in-the-future-9475.html" target="_blank">inferiority"? Although he feels personally that "all these years, I have spent all my energy fighting against inferiority, wasting my life for nothing" is a bit unworthy, he's still got a lot to be proud of!

From the questioner's unwavering stance on "inferiority," it's clear that the questioner is anything but "inferior"! In fact, they exude immense "confidence," firmly believing that their grasp on "inferiority" is the "absolute truth." It's as if they've held onto this belief since their high school days, through college graduation, and even into their professional life.

I'd love to know where the questioner gets such "confidence"!

"In 2007, I was in the first year of high school. There were times when I was frustrated by not being able to compete with others in math class, and it seemed that overnight I discovered that I was inferior to others.

Something that happened overnight may have been brewing "in the shadows" for a long time before—and it's amazing how much can happen in the blink of an eye!

"I read an amazing book before winter vacation. It said that people with low self-esteem are worthless, and that low self-esteem is tantamount to failure.

Oh, what kind of book is the questioner reading? "People with low self-esteem are worthless, and low self-esteem is tantamount to failure."

It's clear that this conclusion is extreme. "How is a person with low self-esteem worthless? At least they are not self-conscious about having low self-esteem, right?

"My logic is that since self-confidence is the secret to success, then to be self-confident, you must eliminate inferiority. I'm so excited to see where this thought process will lead!"

"To be confident, you must eliminate inferiority" is even more fascinating. If you eliminate "inferiority," where does "confidence" come from? You have to understand that inferiority and confidence are two sides of the same coin. Without inferiority, there is naturally no confidence.

"I can even accept self-judgments such as being inferior to others and being humble. I just can't accept inferiority. I can accept any kind of negative human trait, except inferiority.

"Inferior to others, humble" is a great example of how to show humility. The questioner can accept this, but says that he cannot accept "inferiority." What if the questioner is not so much opposed to "inferiority" as he is to the word "inferiority" itself?

For so many years, my life has been on pause because of an inferiority complex. But now I'm ready to take the next step!

You can do it! You have to change him.

I've read a lot about inferiority and transcendence, but I still have a different view on it.

I can't accept the fact that I have an inferiority complex, and I don't believe everyone has one either!

From these words, I also strongly feel how "confident" the questioner is. "Confident" is a bit "deformed." This may be the result of putting all the energy that should be invested in the side of "inferiority" on the side of "confidence."

"I don't believe everyone has inferiority either," the questioner says. Why not? Is it because "everyone else looks so happy and there's no trace of inferiority"?

I'd love to know what kind of behavior the questioner thinks can show you have low self-esteem!

"If everyone has it, I won't change." The OP is absolutely right! Your current situation is not changing, so it's time for a change!

If you really want to change, why not take action today and start making a difference? Instead of dwelling on the negative, take control and make your life meaningful.

You can change your inferiority! It's not something you can achieve simply by thinking or talking about it. You need to take personal action and gain experience. And the manifestation of inferiority is not only reflected in external behavior, but also more in the "psychological feeling level."

For example, people who seem to be successful in every way are actually very self-conscious. It is precisely because of their inferiority complex that they need to achieve "many successes" to prove themselves—and they will!

From this perspective, the questioner is anything but inferior!

Coming here to ask a question is a fantastic new beginning for the questioner! The questioner is ready to move on from using "inferiority" as an excuse to waste their life.

I am so excited to help you in any way I can! Best wishes!

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Cecil Cecil A total of 1447 people have been helped

The utilization of the aforementioned resources is encouraged.

The number of characters permitted in this field is limited. Therefore, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of the entirety of my experience.

The available space is limited, and I feel that I have not yet conveyed the entirety of my thoughts on this matter.

In 2007, following the completion of a mathematics course, it appeared that I had undergone a sudden and profound realisation that I was inferior to others. This was followed by a period of significant personal growth and discovery.

Subsequently, I perceived myself to be inferior to others in numerous respects. Consequently, I was unable to accept my perceived deficiencies.

Consequently, I engaged in defensive behaviors to avoid the perception of being inferior to others. This can be said to have been the case all along, and it also led to a feeling that I could not afford to lose.

That is not the primary issue. The primary issue is that after I had labeled myself, I became inferior. Ever since then, my outlook has been bleak.

Furthermore, I read a book that stated self-confidence is the key to success. This led me to question how I could simply accept inferiority.

Low self-esteem is a significant predictor of failure.

As a result, I experienced depression for an extended period. In reflecting on the past, my aim is to achieve a complete cure for my depression.

Depression is characterized by feelings of inferiority and frustration in the face of perceived inability to meet the standards of others.

If the condition is not present in others, it is irrelevant.

I then reflected on my past experiences and realized that I had never been confident. I had equated confidence with feelings of self-assurance and self-importance, which I now recognize as forms of pride.

However, at that time, I believed that I lacked confidence and now experience low self-esteem. Consequently, my current objective is to address this low self-esteem.

It is not a matter of regaining confidence. At the very least, the act of regaining confidence would imply that I could have been okay.

Inferiority is akin to a perception of inadequacy.

At that time, I observed that the individuals around me appeared to be joyful and did not exhibit any indications of inferiority complexes. Consequently, I came to the conclusion that such complexes are not universal. If they were, I would have expected to see them in others as well.

I postulate that my condition is merely a manifestation of self-consciousness.

Upon reflection, I am overcome with a profound sense of trepidation when confronted with a multitude of individuals. I am compelled to seek solitude and avoid such circumstances.

Upon contemplating the possibility of an inferiority complex, I experience a sense of panic and a tendency to avoid the situation altogether.

Indeed, despite my previous academic achievements, I have always considered myself to be humble. This is a direct consequence of my educational background. I do not recall ever feeling proud of my academic performance.

Therefore, it seems that pride is not a viable emotion for me. Upon reflection, even if pride was a possibility at the time, it is now a dichotomy of half pride and half inferiority.

Previously, I had the perception that I was capable of facing a crowd. However, at present, I recognize that I am instead characterized by an inferiority complex and a profound sense of panic.

I have long held the belief that I was unable to marry due to my low self-esteem. Similarly, I have been convinced that I was unable to work due to the same reason.

It appears that eliminating the influence of inferiority would facilitate a transformation in my thinking. Therefore, it would be prudent to address this issue before embarking on a new course of action.

Furthermore, it is intriguing to speculate what the outcome might have been had I not read that particular book at that juncture. Unfortunately, the nature of reality precludes the possibility of hypotheticals.

In my second year of high school, I experienced a sense of isolation and a lack of acceptance of my true self. It is unclear whether these feelings were a result of an inferiority complex, but there were numerous contributing factors.

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Agnes Pearl Gardner Agnes Pearl Gardner A total of 7383 people have been helped

You realized that comparing yourself to others makes you feel inferior. You can see the harm that comparison has brought you. You feel very inferior.

You think you're inferior to others. You've labeled yourself and lost confidence. You've developed depression. You used to feel good about yourself, but you feel like you're not as good as others.

Maybe everyone else is confident, but you think they may feel inferior. You can see some of your own concerns, and you don't think everyone feels inferior. Maybe it's when we compare ourselves to others that we feel inferior.

Your fear and escape show your inner doubts. You also have a humble and progressive attitude. See where your weaknesses lie and make adjustments.

You have a lot of panic, which might affect your life. If you can, get psychological counseling. When you're unsure, face your problems and get help. You also need a "cane" to see your strengths, gain confidence, and stop comparing. Good luck!

ZQ?

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Joshua Joshua A total of 8923 people have been helped

It is worth noting that throughout my school years and up to the present, I have not yet been able to fully master mathematics.

In 2005, before my third year of high school, I still felt that mathematics was a subject I could do well in, but I didn't think it was anything special. That year, I felt like I couldn't improve my mathematics after trying a few times.

I had the feeling that I wasn't as intelligent as I could be. I believed that no matter how hard I tried, I would never become particularly skilled at mathematics.

I must admit that I was not as successful as I had hoped that year.

I decided to spend the year revising.

However, that year, I was fortunate to achieve full marks in mathematics every time, basically in the first semester. I recall telling myself that I was just a repeater and had seen many of the questions before.

I came to realize that I wasn't as proficient as I had hoped in mathematics. By the second semester, it became evident that I rarely scored more than 140. There was one occasion when I answered all the questions correctly, and I was the only one who did so. I came to accept that my success was somewhat accidental, as were the failures of others.

It appears that I may have been experiencing some feelings of inadequacy in mathematics at the time.

I always had a core belief that all the math questions on the exam were new, and I was sure I couldn't do that well. Now that I did so well, I'm starting to think that perhaps I didn't do as well as I thought on the exam. It seems that the exam was not as challenging as I had assumed, with a score of only 120.

Although I was pleased to come first in the exam, I never considered myself to be among the best students. This was not because I had any other concerns, but because of my performance in mathematics. I felt that only students who were good at mathematics could be considered truly good students.

I have to admit that I'm not particularly gifted in mathematics. As a result, I have come to view myself as less capable overall.

I have come to believe that one's goodness may be determined by mathematics. I previously thought that perfectionism was the determining factor, but I have since come to realize that this is not the case.

It's possible that my previous belief that I was not good at math led me to conclude that I was not okay, which in turn has led to my ongoing feelings of inadequacy.

If my math skills were stronger, I might not be so focused on them. My struggles with math may have led me to form a negative view of myself in general.

Since I realized that everything could be caused by mathematics, I was determined to break through. I never expected that this inferiority complex would become so deeply ingrained.

I believe that my math performance was not as strong as my classmate's, who placed first, may have been influenced by the same factors. Interestingly, he was a student I had reviewed with during my junior year of high school. At the time, I probably thought he was a freshman and therefore had a natural aptitude for math. As for me, I did do well in math before winter vacation, but I didn't expect to face new challenges when school started. It seemed that the difficulties I was facing were still related to math.

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Wilhelmina Wilhelmina A total of 8691 people have been helped

Hugs to you for being so persistent in fighting against inferiority!

First, when I read your words, I suddenly thought of someone: Don Quixote, a man who fought a war against imaginary enemies, the windmills! 15 years have passed since 2007, but how many 15 years does one get in life?

Let's ditch the word "inferiority" and this imaginary state! I know you don't want to, but you do, and you study it and fight against it, unfortunately without any result.

It's time to recognize that it's an enemy without cause. Everyone around you and everyone in the world is trying to get out of their predicament and become better, and you have the power to join them! It's time to break free from your self-imposed isolation and embrace the sunshine.

Secondly, a moderate amount of inferiority can be a driving force to motivate oneself. Everyone has more or less inferiority, that's for sure. But here's the good news: having inferiority doesn't necessarily mean that you can't be happy! You can choose to be happy, and you can choose to live a life of joy and fulfillment.

You seem to understand this better than I do, so I won't say much more, except that you just don't believe it yourself.

Third, to be fair, you mentioned that you have suspended your marriage and employment. It seems that you are still relying on your parents for support, which is great! You have nothing to do every day, which gives you the freedom to explore new opportunities.

I wish I could give you a better answer, but with limited information, I cannot make a judgment, which will only aggravate your imagination and state of mind. The good news is that I can suggest that you seek appropriate psychological counseling or even psychiatric psychotherapy, the long-term, formal, professional kind.

Finally, I would like to add that everyone has low self-esteem, but no one is as obsessed with it and loves it as you do. I'm sure you can get out of the dark cloud soon and embrace the sunshine!

Personal public account: The wonderful young people (ID: qingnianJIA2020) are looking forward to keeping in touch with you!

One Psychology Q&A Hall is an amazing, supportive community where the world and I love each other! Check it out: https://m.xinli001.com/qa

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Logan Logan A total of 3982 people have been helped

From the questioner's description, it is evident that confidence-and-mild-self-doubt-in-the-future-9475.html" target="_blank">inferiority has been a persistent and pervasive issue for an extended period, hindering progress and impeding confidence. Despite attempts to overcome this challenge, it continues to exert a dominant influence over the individual's life. The passage of time has not diminished the impact of inferiority, which continues to shape the person's outlook and actions.

There is a great deal of unexpressed sadness and frustration.

The following information is provided with the intention of offering suggestions for enhancing your response to feelings of inferiority, with the ultimate goal of breaking free from the cycle of powerlessness.

The following information is provided with the intention of offering suggestions for addressing feelings of inferiority and improving one's sense of self-efficacy.

1. The questioner's thoughts and the core belief of "I am incompetent" appear to be essentially the same.

When the ego starts to feel inferior and inferior to others in everything, it means that we have believed the self-fulfilling prophecy that "I am incapable and inferior to others." As you mentioned in your message, many years have passed with no discernible progress.

This is because, as we are our own prophets, it is challenging for us to identify inconsistencies in our own prophecies.

For many years, due to a core belief in our own inadequacy, our brains have automatically filtered out any evidence that we are capable of and can excel in certain areas. For instance, if you are able to gain admission to college, it demonstrates that your learning abilities exceed those of students who did not gain admission to the same level of college as you.

Your ability to read and think sets you apart from those who do not possess these skills.

2. Return to the initial incident that instilled a sense of inferiority and ascertain the facts surrounding the event.

Following the mathematics class in 2007, I came to perceive myself as inferior to others. I subsequently discovered a number of facts that challenged this perception.

As the message does not provide details of this event that has had a significant impact on you, we invite you to consider the following dimensions.

Could you please clarify who you consider to be your peers? Are they all the students in your class, all the students in the entire grade, a select few, or a single individual?

Prior to this occurrence, have you experienced comparable situations that did not result in a perception of inferiority?

What other skills or attributes do you possess that are recognized or admired by others? How do you view individuals who excel in areas beyond mathematics?

These questions are designed to assist you in expanding your thinking beyond the limitations that are causing you difficulty. It is not appropriate to assume that a piece of paper with a black spot is, in fact, black.

From a macro-level perspective, which encompasses the past, present, and future, it is possible to gain a different understanding of the role that mathematics plays in one's life.

3. Reading is one method of achieving this, and engaging with other individuals may provide a broader perspective.

3. Reading is one method of addressing this issue, and interacting with others may provide a broader perspective.

It is evident from the message that the questioner has invested significant effort in seeking self-redemption through reading books. However, this method of reading books may not fully address one's blind spots due to the limitations of a one-way output.

If the questioner has the resources, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a counselor to facilitate a resolution to the current situation. Engaging in dialogue with a counselor can provide a broader perspective and help overcome feelings of inferiority.

I am not a human behavior analyst, but a mental health professional who cares about the human heart. I wish you the best.

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Victor Clark Victor Clark A total of 7946 people have been helped

Greetings, question asker. My name is Lamb, and I am here to offer you my assistance.

I have meticulously perused your inquiry and comprehended your concerns. In this response, I aim to proffer a few points from my own perspective, which I hope will prove beneficial to you.

First and foremost, it is imperative to comprehend that inferiority is an insurmountable pit. During your tenure in high school, you articulated that you felt inferior to your peers due to your inability to compete with them in a mathematics class.

The abilities of an individual are influenced by a multitude of factors. During my secondary education, I did not excel in mathematics, opting instead to major in the arts. Despite this, I did not perceive myself as lacking in mathematical abilities, given that I was proficient in Chinese.

It is erroneous to assume that everyone is omnipotent. Humans are not supermen or superwomen; we do not possess superpowers and cannot perform every task perfectly. Therefore, it is prudent to look forward, avoid dwelling on trivial matters, and strive to identify and leverage our strengths more effectively.

Secondly, you stated that you have chosen to temporarily cease your pursuit of personal growth due to an inferiority complex. This is an unfavorable decision. I am unaware of the circumstances you have experienced, but I wish to inform you that you possess unique and exceptional qualities. There is no inherent disadvantage in embracing imperfections. We have but one life, and it is imperative to prioritize our own well-being.

One must not allow an inferiority complex to impede one's own personal charm.

Ultimately, you assert that all individuals appear joyful, yet you doubt that they are inferior. You claim that your own optimism and smile disguise deeper sadness and loneliness.

Some individuals simply conceal their inferiority and refrain from allowing it to affect them. Ultimately, life is about looking forward. What reason is there to be inferior? Parents are alive and healthy.

This is already a significant advantage. It is imperative not to allow any obstacle to impede one's progress.

This is not the optimal approach.

One must work assiduously, cultivating excellence as a habit. When one has attained a sufficient level of proficiency, one may find that one's current outlook shifts.

It is therefore imperative to engage in rigorous study and pursue self-improvement. One should utilize knowledge to challenge and alter beliefs that are not aligned with one's personal growth.

It is imperative to be courageous and hypothesize, as well as investigate the veracity of a proposition with ingenuity. Excellence should become an ingrained habit that perpetually resides within one's being.

Ultimately, it is my sincere hope that the individual who initiated this discussion is able to achieve a state of daily contentment and joy, and that they continue to flourish.

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Amelia Baker Amelia Baker A total of 27 people have been helped

Good day. I empathize with your distress and frustration at feeling inadequate.

Firstly, it is important to note that feelings of inferiority are a common occurrence. When one's own shortcomings are faced with the strengths of others, and a significant comparison is still made, the result is often disappointment and frustration. To illustrate this, consider a scenario where a tortoise and a rabbit compete in a race. If the competition is based on speed, the tortoise, with its slower pace, may feel a sense of inferiority.

In a swimming competition, the underdog would likely be the rabbit.

Secondly, an individual's perception of their abilities is not necessarily aligned with their actual capabilities. From your description, it appears that your inferiority complex originated from a mathematics class where you did not benchmark yourself against others, leading to a sense of inadequacy.

I would like to inquire as to whether you have ever compared yourself with others in terms of physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, height, skin color, and so forth. If you have, I would be grateful if you could confirm whether you truly believe yourself to be inferior in all of these areas.

In particular, have you ever considered whether you are better than a specific person? If you have not compared yourself to others, I encourage you to do so. This will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses.

The concern is that you are comparing yourself to individuals who excel in mathematics or Chinese language proficiency. You are consistently evaluating your shortcomings against the strengths of others.

It is not possible to be perfect at everything. The only way to gain an advantage, with the exception of physical appearance, is through sufficient effort and time.

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that your inferiority complex is a result of a misperception and has no bearing on your actual abilities.

If the issue is ability, it is that you have not yet developed the ability to view yourself objectively.

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Comments

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Josiah Thomas Time is a flame that burns brightly, then fades away.

I can totally relate to feeling like you're falling behind everyone else. That math class was a tough wakeup call for me too, and it felt like my confidence took a nosedive overnight. I remember thinking that if only I could get rid of those feelings of inadequacy, everything would be better.

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Sheena Miller The beauty of time is that it never repeats itself.

It's heartbreaking to think how much time we spend battling with ourselves instead of moving forward. I thought by reading books on selfesteem, I'd find the magic solution, but it didn't work as expected. It's frustrating when you know there's something holding you back but can't seem to let go of it.

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Jimmy Davis Life is a dance of the spirit and the body.

I wonder if we put too much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. Maybe it's okay to have moments where we don't feel confident. Everyone has their struggles, even if they don't show it. I wish I had realized earlier that low selfesteem is just one part of who we are and not the whole story.

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Trace Anderson Honesty is a quality that endures through time.

Looking back, I wish I had given myself more grace and understood that comparing myself to others wasn't helping. Instead of focusing on what I lacked, perhaps I should have celebrated what made me unique. Life might have been different if I embraced all aspects of myself sooner.

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Naomi Steel Life is a voyage of self - realization.

It's strange how we can hide our insecurities from the world while believing others don't have them. In reality, most people probably feel the same way at some point. If only we could see each other's vulnerabilities, maybe we wouldn't feel so alone in this struggle.

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