Insecurity is a part of my daily life. It doesn’t usually get in the way, but it is ever-present. Sometimes it’s over something silly like trying a new recipe, or something bigger like sharing my work or waiting for test results.

I’ve had a lot of practice, so it usually just hums along in the background, but I turn to these strategies when I need a little help.

If you struggle with insecurity, I hope these simple strategies will help.

5 simple strategies to use when you are insecure

1. Take action.
Do it anyway, even when you feel insecure. Action shuts insecurity down and strengthens your resolve for the next time you have to rise above that tiny voice that says you aren’t good enough.

2. Ask for help.
You need people in your corner/circle/tribe/community to lift you up, talk you down, and to support and guide you. Be vulnerable and let people in.

3. Don’t compare.
Constantly comparing and competing is exhausting and usually the things we try to measure up to aren’t real. They are filtered, photoshopped and other people’s highlight reels. Instead, do what feels best for you. The freedom you feel from being you will only elevate your actions and intentions.

4. Remember this is temporary.
I can correct typos, delete videos, remove blog posts, step back, or out, or whatever I need to do. And, attention is fleeting. There is always room for change, new direction and moving forward. Think back to what you were feeling insecure about 6 months ago and you probably won’t remember why. This too shall pass.

5. Take a walk.
When you can’t push through or rise above, walk away. Get in the woods, or out in your city and walk out the fear and the insecurity. Removing yourself from the immediate danger gives everything perspective. Come back in and try again.

Insecurity doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.