Many people doubt themselves but struggle to explain why. They wonder whether it is low self-esteem, a lack of confidence, or something deeper that feels hard to name.

Several different inner struggles can create self-doubt. They can overlap and look similar, but they are not the same. Each one affects how you see yourself and how you move through the world.

As you read the brief stories below, notice which ones feel familiar. See if you can identify who is struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, self-confidence, or self-knowledge. Then read on to discover what each one really means, and what your own self-doubt may be trying to tell you.

Jenny

Jenny sits on the couch in the lobby, waiting to be called for her job interview to begin. On the outside, she appears calm and composed. On the inside, she is desperately trying to manage her anxiety and stop the thoughts that are racing through her head.

What if I say the wrong thing? What if they see right through me? I might blow this. I don’t belong here. Around and around those thoughts go, feeding her anxiety.

Dwight

Dwight wakes up at 11:00 this Saturday morning.

© Psychology Today