Insecurity dey worry you? You’re not alone.
Whether you’re hustling in London, raising a family in Manchester, or chasing dreams in Birmingham, many Nigerians in the UK sometimes feel insecure — about money, career, looks, or even relationships. But here’s the good news: you can overcome it and thrive!
Let’s break it down the Naija way 👇🏾
What are insecurities?
Insecurities are those sneaky feelings that make you doubt yourself. You might feel you’re not good enough, smart enough, or even “UK-ready” enough. It could be about your accent, your bank account, your parenting skills, or whether you belong in that job you fought so hard to get.
These feelings often come from low self-esteem — that inner critic that makes you second-guess your worth. And if not checked, insecurity can limit how far you go in life.
3 Common Types of Insecurities (Especially Among Us Naija Folk)
- Personal Insecurities
Maybe you don’t like how you look. Maybe you feel your lifestyle isn’t as “posh” as others. You start comparing yourself to fellow Nigerians on Instagram — forgetting that many are packaging. 😅 - Professional Insecurities
Are you afraid to speak up at work because of your accent? Do you feel you’re not as “polished” as your colleagues? Maybe you dodge promotions or opportunities because you feel like an imposter. That’s insecurity talking. - Relationship Insecurities
Some of us fear our partner will leave us or think we’re not good enough. That fear can make you overly jealous, controlling, or always looking for validation. It affects not just romantic relationships but friendships and family ties too.
What Causes Insecurity?
Several things can contribute:
- Growing up with too much criticism (you know how harsh Naija parents can be)
- Constant comparison with others (especially online!)
- Past failures or breakups
- Racism or exclusion in the UK
- Financial stress or immigration struggles
- Toxic relationships or workplaces
Any of these can shake your confidence if you’re not careful.
Consequences of Insecurity
Insecurity can:
- Hold you back from chasing your goals
- Make you sabotage relationships
- Lead to anxiety or depression
- Affect how you see yourself and how others treat you
If you constantly feel you’re not enough, you might stop trying altogether. But that’s not your portion, amen? 🙏🏾
10 Naija-Smart Tips to Overcome Insecurity
- Talk About It
Speak to someone — a therapist, a trusted friend, or even journal your thoughts. Bottling it up no dey help anybody. - Set Realistic Goals
Don’t try to “blow” overnight. Start small. Progress is still progress. Use SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound. - Expect Setbacks
Life na ups and downs. That one failed job interview, or one “no” from home office, doesn’t define your future. - Embrace Who You Are
You’re Naija — that alone makes you strong! Your accent, your hustle, your story is unique. Own it. - Challenge Negative Thoughts
Would you talk to your friend the way you talk to yourself? Be kind to yourself. Talk like you’d talk to someone you love. - Keep Uplifting Company
Avoid people wey dey always belittle or criticise. Stick with encouragers, not energy-drainers. - Learn From Others
Many successful Nigerians in the UK started from zero. Read their stories, watch interviews — it will remind you you’re not alone. - Try New Things
Take that course. Apply for that role. Go on that trip. New experiences can help you see how capable you are. - Cut Off What Brings You Down
Is it that “frenemy” who always mocks you? Or that WhatsApp group that makes you feel less? Walk away and protect your peace. - Stop the Comparison Game
No two destinies are the same. Run your own race, and trust that your time will come.
Insecurity No Be Your Identity
Even confident people get insecure sometimes — the key is not to let it define you. Next time you feel that doubt creeping in, remember:
You moved to a new country. You’re raising kids in a foreign system. You’re working hard. You’re building something from scratch. That alone is strength!
So chin up, Naija fam. You’ve come too far to let insecurity stop you now. 💪🏾🇳🇬🇬🇧
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