When people who care about you tell you how strong and capable they think you are, especially when you struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, they are likely trying to provide emotional support and encouragement. This kind of affirmation serves several purposes:
Boosting Confidence: By expressing their belief in your strength and capabilities, they aim to boost your confidence and self-esteem. Knowing that others see potential in you can help you reevaluate your self-perception and view yourself in a more positive light.
Validation: It's a way of validating your feelings and experiences. They acknowledge that you are going through a tough time, but they also want you to know that they believe in your ability to overcome challenges.
Coping Mechanism: Positive reinforcement can serve as a coping mechanism during difficult times. By hearing encouraging words from those close to you, it can help alleviate stress and anxiety, even if only temporarily.
Creating a Supportive Environment: People who care about you want to create a supportive environment where you feel loved and understood. They want you to know that you are not alone in your struggles and that they are there for you.
Motivation: By highlighting your strengths and capabilities, they hope to motivate you to keep pushing forward, even when facing difficulties. This can inspire you to take on challenges and work through your self-doubt and anxiety.
Perspective Shift: Sometimes, when you are in the midst of self-doubt and anxiety, it can be challenging to see things objectively. Hearing someone else's perspective can help you gain a new outlook on your abilities and potential.
Empowerment: The words of encouragement are meant to empower you. They want you to feel empowered to take control of your life, confront your challenges, and believe in yourself.
While these words of support can be incredibly helpful and well-intentioned, it's important to recognize that overcoming self-doubt and anxiety is a process that may require additional support. It's okay to seek professional help from therapists or counselors who can provide strategies and tools to manage these feelings effectively.
Moreover, it's essential to remember that it's okay to have moments of vulnerability and self-doubt. Everyone faces challenges in life, and seeking help and support from others is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's okay to lean on the people who care about you during difficult times, as they genuinely want to see you thrive and be well.