unsure woman | how to be less insecure
Read time: 2 min

Rate this article and enter to win

Adam C.*, University of the District of Columbia, Washington DC

Congratulations! Asking what you can do about it means you’ve already completed the first step in becoming less insecure. Everyone has some level of insecurity, where one feels unsure of themselves or their actions. Even the most seemingly confident people have insecurities. Know that you’re not alone.

Here are a few ways to find your confidence when insecurity arises.

check list icon | how to be less insecure1. Make a list of what you like about yourself

Feeling less insecure starts with you making a mental note of the things that make you feel good about yourself. You can start small. For example, when I’m feeling insecure, I try to think about how I like the way I laugh, how I like the look of my fingers, and how I like the way I make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I don’t try to think of life-changing, monumental things—just the small stuff. After thinking it through, I realize I have a couple of things I feel good about and that helps me feel a little more confident. You can do this every day or any time you’re feeling insecure.

2. Cut off your inner criticscissors icon | how to be less insecure

Don’t let critical thoughts control your mind. As soon as you hear them, cut them off. If you have to cut the thoughts off a thousand times an hour, do that until they become less and less prominent. The thoughts may never fully go away. However, if you’re able to prevent critical thoughts from taking over your mind, they’ll have less control over you and you’ll feel more powerful. If you find that you are unable to stop the thoughts at all, I would encourage you to talk to a counselor or mental health professional who can help you find other ways to manage the thoughts.

3. Learn or do something newlight bulb icon | how to be less insecure

Once you’re feeling a little better, take on a new hobby. For example, try learning how to skateboard, mastering a new language, or playing a new video game. The key is to avoid putting pressure on yourself; just choose an activity you can do for fun. If you’re able to get through the first class or attempt at the new skill, you score big. Even if you fell off the skateboard, couldn’t pronounce a word right, or lost the video game, you still know that you’ve accomplished something. The key to this exercise isn’t about trying to be perfect at everything; it’s about having the courage to challenge yourself and try something new. By trying something new, you build up your courage muscle, and confidence comes from that.

Bit by bit, you’ll start to notice the new, more secure you, which was always there to begin with. It just needed a little encouragement to show up.

*Name changed


What was the most interesting thing you read in this article?

Have you seen at least one thing on that you will apply to everyday life?
Have you seen at least one thing on that caused you to get involved, ask for help, utilize campus resources, or help a friend?
If you could change one thing about , what would it be?
Are there any other topics or angles you would like to see in , that we haven't covered?
First name: ?

Last name:

E-mail:

I do not reside in Nevada Or Hawaii:

Want to increase your chances to win?

Refer up to 3 of your friends and when each visits , you will receive an additional entry into the weekly drawing.

Please note: Unless your friend chooses to opt-in, they will never receive another email from after the initial referral email.

Email 1:

Email 2:

Email 3:


What was the most interesting thing you read in this article?

Have you seen at least one thing on that you will apply to everyday life?
Have you seen at least one thing on that caused you to get involved, ask for help, utilize campus resources, or help a friend?
If you could change one thing about , what would it be?
Are there any other topics or angles you would like to see in , that we haven't covered?
First name: ?

Last name:

E-mail:

I do not reside in Nevada Or Hawaii:

Want to increase your chances to win?

Refer up to 3 of your friends and when each visits , you will receive an additional entry into the weekly drawing.

Please note: Unless your friend chooses to opt-in, they will never receive another email from after the initial referral email.

Email 1:

Email 2:

Email 3:


Have you seen at least one thing on that you will apply to everyday life?
Have you seen at least one thing on that caused you to get involved, ask for help, utilize campus resources, or help a friend?
Are there any other topics or angles you would like to see in , that we haven't covered?
First name: ?

Last name:

E-mail:

I do not reside in Nevada Or Hawaii:

Want to increase your chances to win?

Refer up to 3 of your friends and when each visits , you will receive an additional entry into the weekly drawing.

Please note: Unless your friend chooses to opt-in, they will never receive another email from after the initial referral email.

Email 1:

Email 2:

Email 3:


Individuals under the age of 13 may not enter or submit information to this giveaway.
Your data will never be shared or sold to outside parties. View our Privacy Policy. TERMS & CONDITIONS