Feeling Insecure at Work
By Aleida Lopez Gimenez
Insecurity is a widely familiar feeling, and most of us experience it at some point. It is mainly present at the workplace, where our abilities are constantly tested, and we must defend or justify our work.
When we feel insecure, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable situations, avoid confrontation, or stop speaking our minds. Insecurity can even lead to us questioning our own skills and ability, which can ultimately decrease job performance.
Contrary to what some may think, we are not born insecure. Therefore, We should acknowledge where this feeling comes from to deal with it.
Where Does Insecurity Come From?
Insecurity is not an inherent part of our being. External factors in our lives cause it. For example, look at the impact of social media on young womens’ self-esteem. Women are often forced to compare their appearance in relation to society’s ridiculously high beauty standards. A perfectly functioning pair of legs can become a source of insecurity if they are viewed as not long or thin enough.
The same happens in a work environment where, instead of receiving support from your peers and superiors, your effort and value are not recognized. This ‘message’ can come through in many forms - whether your remarks or suggestions are being ignored, or if you are underpaid for your job. Insecurity, then, is a momentary state caused by specific triggers, not a chronic condition.
The consequences of this type of work environment are, among others, experiencing high levels of self-doubt, the inability to realistically assess your competence or skills, downplaying your accomplishments, and over-depending on external praise. Insecurity at work is often associated with imposter syndrome, overachieving, and fear of losing your job.
Differences Between Men and Women
Research has shown that insecurity is much more of a social issue than a psychological one. This is why even if women are just as confident as men and show similar inclinations, attitudes, and reactions to feedback, gender bias in the workplace often puts them in a place of recurrent self-doubt.
Discriminatory policies and segregating labor, which results in the gender pay gap, higher percentages of working poverty, part-time work, etc., are often at the root of women’s insecurities at work. This structural problem is also expressed in conflicting messages and biased personal feedback, a more subtle but equally toxic way to undermine women in a male-dominant work environment.
In short, women do feel more insecure than men in the workplace, but the difference is not conditioned by their sex but by their situation. There's no real solution without an actual systemic change, where organizational structures and company practices are redesigned.
How to Face Your Insecurities
Unfortunately, we often have no say in our workplace culture. Especially in large companies, organizational bodies are so unshakable that structural changes might take time and effort. Of course, being an advocate for a more inclusive and supportive environment is a great way to deal with it.
However, in the short run, it is also vital to deal with our feelings of insecurity and avoid them from taking over our self-esteem and job performance. Here are some steps you take to deal with insecurity:
Identify the triggers: Assess yourself to pinpoint the situations that cause your insecurities, such as speaking in public or dealing with conflict.
Set realistic but challenging goals: Setting achievable goals will help you gain self-confidence. If you keep them to yourself, you’ll also surprise your coworkers and superiors.
Find help: When your insecurities feel too much to handle, seek professional help. Career mentors and coaches can help you overcome these overwhelming feelings.
Take care of yourself: Wellness is vital in every aspect of your life and regarding your job. Meditating, working out, or doing whatever you need to destress are essential ways to reduce insecurity.
In Conclusion
Insecurity in the workplace is a byproduct of a non-supportive and toxic environment. Insecure people are made, not born. Also, due to gender inequality, women are more prone to insecurity than men.
Systemic change is crucial to make the (work) world a better place. But taking care of yourself is also very important. Dealing with your insecurities will make you a better worker and a happier person.