The Three Best Tips For The Inferiority Complex

Problematic inferiority refers to very persistent feelings of being not good enough.

It can be problematic if you are constantly comparing yourself to other people and feeling like you're not good enough. Constant self-doubt, insecurity, and inferiority can also hinder your normal functioning and daily life.

If left unchecked, this can have dire consequences for health and wellbeing. 

A persistent sense of inferiority can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., social withdrawal), reduced confidence, anxiety, stress, and low mood. It is thus essential to recognise when your sense of inferiority is excessive and take measures to improve on it. 

Here are some signs of persisting inferiority that you should keep an eye out for:

Consistently making unfavourable comparisons between yourself and others, especially on 'performance' measures (e.g., job interview).

Deep-rooted feelings of worthlessness, despair, low self-esteem, anxiety, and social isolation.

Feeling insecure or inferior in important life domains.

Changing your behaviours to avoid tasks and situations where you expect to be 'exposed'.

Overcompensatory behaviours such as constantly setting unrealistic goals or having unrelenting high standards.

If you notice any of these signs, working towards more helpful thoughts and behaviours is vital.

While dealing with feelings of inferiority may feel difficult or impossible in the moment, it is indeed possible to cope with these feelings. Here are some strategies to help you:

Set Realistic Goals

If you tend to set high expectations for yourself, then it is important to consciously set realistic goals. Pursuing meaningful goals in a logical fashion will help you focus on appropriate measures of "success". 

Ask For Objective Feedback From People You Trust

Asking certain friends, family, and coworkers for objective feedback can help take a different perspective on yourself. For example, you may habitually underestimate your skills, talents, and strengths. An outside view can help spot this bias and recalibrate. 

Question The Basis Of Others' Supposed Superiority

If you feel inferior to someone, it is crucial to examine the evidence that suggests this. Find out whether there are factual reasons for you to believe someone is superior or whether this is an unwarranted assumption.

Feelings of inferiority can cloud your judgment and lead to a negative self-image if left unchecked.

Knowing the causes and best responses for this state will help you overcome the problem. With these key strategies, you can slowly work towards a healthier self-image.

You can also speak to a professional who will help you improve these patterns and work towards better mental health.