Feeling like others don't like you, even if you don't know them very well, is a common experience and can be attributed to a combination of psychological and social factors. Here are some potential reasons why you might have these feelings:
Low self-esteem: People with low self-esteem often struggle with feelings of self-worth and may perceive themselves as unlikable or unworthy of others' friendship or affection.
Negative self-talk: Your internal dialogue and negative thoughts about yourself can influence how you perceive others' opinions of you. If you constantly tell yourself that you're unlikeable, you might start believing it, even without concrete evidence.
Fear of rejection: The fear of being rejected or not being accepted by others can lead to assuming the worst about how people feel toward you, even if they haven't expressed any negative feelings.
Past experiences: Past rejections or negative social experiences can leave a lasting impact on your perceptions, causing you to approach new relationships with caution and skepticism.
Social anxiety: Social anxiety can cause you to interpret neutral or ambiguous social cues as signs of disinterest or dislike.
Comparison to others: Comparing yourself to others can lead you to believe that you don't measure up or that others are more likable or attractive, further reinforcing the belief that people won't like you.
Seeking validation: If you seek constant validation from others, you may be more sensitive to perceived signs of rejection or disinterest.
Dealing with these feelings can be challenging, but there are strategies you can use to build healthier perceptions and improve your self-confidence:
Challenge negative thoughts: Be mindful of negative self-talk and actively challenge it. Look for evidence that supports more positive and balanced beliefs about yourself.
Focus on positive qualities: Recognize and appreciate your strengths and positive qualities. Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with kindness.
Gradual exposure: Take small steps in social interactions to build your confidence and reduce anxiety about being judged or rejected.
Develop self-confidence: Engage in activities or hobbies that you enjoy and excel in, as this can boost your self-confidence.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings and experiences. They can provide valuable insights and support.
Set realistic expectations: Not every interaction will lead to a deep friendship or romantic relationship, and that's okay. Accept that not everyone will be a perfect match, and it's part of the process of finding meaningful connections.
Remember, it's natural to experience self-doubt and uncertainty in social situations, but working on building self-confidence and challenging negative thought patterns can help you navigate these feelings and improve your overall well-being.