Being in a relationship ought to provide comfort, security, and emotional support. However, when uncertainty infiltrates a partnership—be it due to concerns about physical appearance, finances, or intellectual capabilities—it can significantly impact the psychological well-being of those involved.
Facing an ongoing stream of negativity from your significant other that makes you feel inferior can lead to anxiety, low self-worth, and depression. It may also cause you to continually doubt yourself.
Insecurity within a partnership can affect different aspects of one’s existence, and here we explore ways to handle this issue.
1. Perception of Physical Appearance and Self-Worth
When your significant other criticizes your appearance or pits you against someone else, you might start feeling insufficient. Over time, this could result in harshly judging your own physique, engaging in obsessive workouts coupled with drastic dietary restrictions, or even staying indoors due to anxiety over social situations. Such behaviors have the potential to culminate in body dysmorphia and diminished self-worth.
2. Financial Pressure and Personal Value
A partner who looks down on you due to your financial situation can leave you feeling helpless and inadequate. Regardless of whether you earn less money or struggle with debts, such treatment could potentially fuel significant self-doubt and insecurity.
The stress of making financial choices that you're uncomfortable with or becoming solely reliant on your partner for money can significantly diminish your self-assurance and independence even more.
3. Questions About Intelligence and Decision Making
When your significant other continually dismisses your viewpoints or makes you feel inadequate, it might lead to self-doubt. Over time, this could hinder your ability to assert yourself confidently, make well-informed choices, or pursue both individual and career development. This kind of emotional control may result in dependency and stagnation, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy within you.
Ways to Handle Insecurities Within a Partnership
1. Recognise the Signs
The initial step towards addressing insecurities stemming from a relationship involves acknowledging harmful behaviors. Should you frequently encounter feelings of worry, lack confidence, or perceive yourself as insufficient, pause and assess the circumstances objectively.
2. Build Self-Confidence
Engage in activities that boost your confidence like exercising, pursuing hobbies, working on self-improvement, or being around supportive friends. Recognize your inherent value outside of the relationship.
3. Communicate Openly
Share your feelings with your partner in a non-accusatory manner. Should they be open to listening and making adjustments, the relationship could get better. On the other hand, if they refuse to address the issue, it might indicate deeper problems within the relationship.
4. Set Boundaries
Do not tolerate constant belittling or manipulation. Establish clear boundaries about what is acceptable behaviour and stick to them.
5. Seek Support
Following the counsel of a trusted friend, relative, or perhaps a therapist might assist you in navigating your feelings and obtaining clarity. An expert can also aid you in determining if the partnership should be preserved or if it’s best to proceed separately.