Are You Seen as Insecure at Work?

Have you ever seen how some of your coworkers appear naturally secure? They ooze self-confidence as if nothing concerns them.

Many of us, however, are not as fortunate. Everyone has insecurities, and some of us, regrettably, have our insecurities on display at work. 

But don't worry, you have the power to make a difference.

 

Here are the six ways to identify your insecurities at work

1. You're always second-guessing your choices

You can't seem to make up your mind. You always put off making decisions, waiting until the last possible moment to decide on the best course of action. When you eventually reach a conclusion, it's not really a conclusion. You begin to doubt yourself. Frequently.

 

2. Your self-deprecating jokes are a little over the top

There's nothing wrong with a bit of self-deprecation now and then. Cracking a joke at your own expense, especially if you're a manager, will make you come across as more humble and personable.

However, if you are constantly criticising yourself, you may have crossed the line from amusing to depressing. Hardly anyone wants to be around someone who is always critical about themselves (out loud, no less), and you'll rapidly gain a reputation for being insecure.

 

3. You like to brag

On the other hand, if you try to project confidence by continuously bragging about your achievements, you'll achieve the same result. People who are confident in their abilities don't need to brag about them. Therefore, if you show a lack of humility at work, you'll be perceived as an insecure boaster.

 

4. You're constantly looking for approval

Yes, many tasks will almost certainly require approval. We all had to deal with red tapes at work. However, if you're continuously seeking permission for everything, to the point that your boss had to advise you to trust your instincts, then it's an indication that you need to quit questioning yourself.

 

5. You don't want to delegate or share responsibilities

If you do everything yourself (because you're afraid that anyone else could have gotten it wrong), you are not showing that you are a take-charge person.

Those who refuse to delegate or share duties with others, including subordinates and colleagues, may fear being replaced. It is a conclusion that others will likely reach as well.

 

6. You rarely voice your opinion

You're concerned that your view is incorrect or unsure if it's appropriate for you to express yourself. These are legitimate fears, but if you allow them to get the better of you to the point that you're not speaking up in meetings or expressing what are almost undoubtedly fantastic ideas, you're shortchanging yourself and putting your professional growth at risk.

 

How to exude confidence at work

1. Always ask for your colleague's feedback

Requesting feedback will assist you in identifying your strengths and weaknesses, as well as determining the best method to resolve them. You'll gain a genuine outside view of your performance, allowing you to improve.

 

2. Don't be afraid to ask questions

Is there something you don't understand? Do you want to learn more? Asking questions is a way to show your curiosity and desire to learn. The reverse is allowing yourself to stay informed.

 

3. Write a list of your best qualities

Take pride in your best traits! You'll be able to better tap into your strengths if you recognise what you're strong at. It would help if you also made it a goal to add one or two attributes to the list every day.

 

4. Make it up as you go along

It's a well-known fact that people who exude confidence aren't always the most confident people in the room; they could simply be attempting to appear secure. 

You can do the same thing. While you won't instantly gain a lot of confidence, appearing to be more secure will allow you to grow, and you might find that your self-esteem has improved dramatically.