Feeling Less Than Your Peers

Ways to overcome the feeling of unworthiness

Reflect

The best way to begin to combat this feeling is to reflect on how you got there. For example, maybe seeing your peers win awards, or seeing attractive and accomplished people on the internet made you feel bad about yourself. In this case, it would be best to take a break from social media. The thing about social media is that it is the aspects of life influencers want you to see. Nobody wants to post all the times they failed before they won. Nobody wants to post the times they broke down and cried or the times they felt like giving up. Remember that it is your path to take and that everyone experiences life at a different pace. Reflecting on yourself helps you remember all that you've accomplished and all that you will. You are your own unique person!

Avoid Comparisons

In our households, parents and guardians sometimes compare us to family and friends. This can hurt because it can sometimes make someone feel as if they aren't good enough the way they are. Unfortunately, we sometimes manifest these practices on our own. People compare GPA, clothes, writing, electronics, etc. Things that we have in our everyday life can sometimes be used to make comparisons on "who has it better." This mindset can be harmful because it puts down you or other people and it can greatly affect your mental well-being. Avoid comparing yourself to others because it may seem like the grass is greener on the other side, but it really never is. You're fine just the way you are!

Surround Yourself With Supportive Friends

One of the best ways to overcome the feeling of being less than is to surround yourself with people who will always uplift you no matter the circumstance. Having someone there whenever you are doubting yourself or in need of emotional support is a great and vital way to overcome this feeling. People who value you and your emotions will always see the potential in you and reassure you that you are on the right track!

Self Care

One of the most important ways to remind yourself of your worth is through self-care. Self-care shouldn't be conditional, it should always be expressed. Your daily actions should reflect that you are constantly caring for yourself. Things like relaxing after doing 30 pages of homework, or treating yourself to Starbucks after finals. Self-care is essential to remind yourself that you deserve to be cared for.