You may be frequently questioning how others see you at work, with friends or in relationships. Maybe it feels like you are walking on eggshells, afraid to speak up or braced against a harsh inner critic who takes any opportunity to attack. You might repeatedly replay past interactions looking for signs of displeasure. Perhaps you feel trapped in an exhausting cycle of overworking or trying to ensure that everyone else is happy, leaving little space for your own needs. It can be painful and infuriating to see others getting their needs met, with no visible sign of these struggles.
For some the hardest part is how unpredictable it feels. You might be riding high after a success or a warm interaction, only to plummet into self-doubt after a work hiccup or an awkward moment. Even when things are going well, the high moments can feel uneasy. There may be anxiety that it won’t last, or a sense that feeling proud is somehow self-indulgent or arrogant.
In therapy, we can explore your thoughts and feelings about yourself, how they tend to surface in daily life and where they took root. Self-doubt, staying small or constantly trying harder may have originally been ways to stay safe or stay connected to others. Therapy provides a space where the weight of past expectations can be loosened. Together we can make room for genuine self-worth: welcoming your natural desire to be seen and appreciated, and building a foundation for a more authentic relationship with yourself and others.
If you would like support with your self-worth, please get in touch. You can also find further information about therapy.