How Do People with Lack of Confidence Behave? Unmasking the Subtle & Overt Signs

Imagine Sarah, a brilliant software engineer, sitting in a team meeting. She’s got a game-changing idea, a truly innovative solution to a long-standing problem. Yet, as the discussion unfolds, she fidgets, her gaze drifting to her lap, and when her manager directly asks for input, her voice is barely above a whisper. She downplays her idea, adding qualifiers like, “It’s probably not that great, but maybe we could…” Her shoulders slump, and despite the positive feedback she might receive, a deep-seated belief tells her it was just luck, or that people were being kind. This scenario, common as it is, perfectly illustrates a core truth: people lacking confidence often exhibit a range of behaviors including self-doubt, avoidance of new challenges, excessive self-criticism, difficulty asserting themselves, seeking constant reassurance, and a tendency to downplay their achievements, all stemming from a core belief in their inadequacy.

Understanding how people with lack of confidence behave isn’t just about spotting obvious shyness. It’s about recognizing a complex tapestry of internal thoughts and external actions that often hold individuals back from reaching their full potential, affecting everything from personal relationships to career advancement. It’s a pervasive issue that influences decision-making, communication, and overall engagement with the world. Let’s dive deep into the nuanced ways this lack of self-assurance manifests, offering a comprehensive look at the observable and hidden signs.

The Inner World of Self-Doubt: Cognitive Behaviors

Before any outward behavior becomes apparent, a person with a lack of confidence is often battling an internal monologue that’s anything but kind. This mental landscape is a critical, and often exhausting, place to be.

• Negative Self-Talk: The Inner Critic’s Relentless Voice

  This is perhaps the most defining characteristic. The inner critic becomes a constant companion, always ready with a put-down. Thoughts like “I’m not good enough,” “I’m going to mess this up,” “Everyone else is so much smarter,” or “Why did I even try?” loop endlessly. It’s like having a little troll sitting on your shoulder, whispering doubts and undermining every thought and action. This isn’t just a fleeting thought; it’s a habitual, often unconscious, pattern of self-deprecation that chips away at self-worth over time. For many folks, this voice is so ingrained it feels like the absolute truth, not just an opinion.

• Maladaptive Perfectionism: The Fear of Not Being Flawless

  While striving for excellence can be a good thing, for someone with low self-esteem, perfectionism can become a debilitating trap. They might spend an inordinate amount of time on tasks, constantly revising and editing, never feeling anything is truly “good enough” to be presented. This isn’t about setting high standards; it’s about a crippling fear of failure or criticism, making them believe that anything short of absolute flawlessness will expose their perceived inadequacies. The paradox here is that this pursuit of perfection often leads to procrastination or even paralysis, as the fear of not meeting impossible standards prevents them from starting or finishing tasks at all.

• Catastrophizing: Always Expecting the Worst

  When faced with a challenge or even a minor setback, the under-confident individual often leaps to the worst possible outcome. A small mistake at work might mean they’ll be fired. A disagreement with a friend might mean the end of the friendship. This ‘what if’ thinking spirals out of control, creating a constant state of anxiety and apprehension. It’s not just cautious planning; it’s a deep-seated belief that they are inherently unlucky or incapable of handling life’s curveballs, leading them to anticipate disaster at every turn. It’s a brutal way to go through life, always bracing for impact.

• Imposter Syndrome: Feeling Like a Fraud

  This is a particularly potent form of self-doubt, where individuals, despite objective evidence of their competence and achievements, believe they are frauds and that their success is due to luck, timing, or deceiving others into thinking they are more capable than they actually are. They fear being “found out.” You might see someone getting rave reviews for their work, yet they’ll privately dismiss it, attributing it to external factors rather than their own skill. This can be especially prevalent in high-achieving individuals, making their internal struggles even more isolating because outwardly, they appear successful.

External Manifestations: Observable Behaviors

While the internal battles are fierce, the lack of confidence inevitably spills into observable behaviors. These are the signs you might notice in a colleague, friend, or even yourself.

Body Language: The Unspoken Story

Our bodies often speak volumes before we even open our mouths, and for those with low self-esteem, this silent language can be quite telling.

• Avoidance of Eye Contact: They might struggle to meet your gaze directly, often looking down, away, or at the wall behind you. This isn’t just shyness; it’s a discomfort with being seen or feeling judged. It’s like they’re trying to disappear into the background, hoping not to draw attention to themselves.
• Fidgeting and Restlessness: Playing with hair, tapping fingers, shuffling feet, or constantly adjusting clothing can be outward signs of inner nervousness and discomfort. It’s a physical manifestation of anxiety that they’re probably not even aware they’re doing half the time.
• Slumped Posture and Smaller Presence: Individuals lacking confidence often adopt a posture that makes them appear smaller and less noticeable. Shoulders might be rounded, heads down, and they might physically take up less space, perhaps hunching over or crossing their arms defensively. They’re literally trying to shrink themselves.
• Nervous Gestures: Covering their mouth when speaking, biting their nails, or touching their face frequently can indicate unease and a desire to self-soothe. These are often unconscious habits that kick in when they feel scrutinized or uncertain.

Communication Patterns: What They Say and How They Say It

The way an under-confident person communicates can be rife with subtle (and not-so-subtle) cues.

• Apologizing Excessively: They might apologize for things that aren’t their fault, for speaking up, or even for simply existing. “Sorry, can I just ask a quick question?” or “Oh, sorry, was that out of line?” become common refrains. It’s a preemptive strike against potential criticism.
• Difficulty Saying “No”: The fear of disappointing others or being disliked often makes it incredibly hard for them to set boundaries. They might overcommit, take on too much, or agree to things they don’t want to do, all to avoid conflict or rejection. This can lead to burnout and resentment, a truly crummy cycle.
• Speaking Softly or Hesitantly: Their voice might lack conviction, be soft, or trail off at the end of sentences. They may pause frequently, using filler words like “um” or “uh,” suggesting uncertainty in their thoughts or fear of interruption. It’s as if they’re testing the waters to see if their words are even welcome.
• Seeking Constant Reassurance: “Does this look okay?” “Am I doing this right?” “Is this what you wanted?” These questions pop up frequently, even for tasks they are perfectly capable of handling. They need external validation to confirm their efforts are acceptable because they can’t trust their own judgment.
• Downplaying Achievements and Deflecting Praise: When praised, they might quickly dismiss it with “Oh, it was nothing,” “Anyone could have done it,” or “I just got lucky.” They genuinely struggle to internalize compliments, convinced that they don’t truly deserve them. It’s tough to watch someone consistently deny their own shine.
• Avoiding Self-Promotion: Even when they’ve done something truly stellar, they’ll rarely brag or highlight their contributions. They might even actively avoid situations where they could be recognized, like presenting their work or applying for promotions. They worry it’s boastful or that they’ll be seen as inauthentic.

Decision-Making: The Paralysis of Uncertainty

Making choices, even minor ones, can be a monumental challenge for someone with low self-esteem.

• Indecision and Procrastination: The fear of making the “wrong” choice can lead to prolonged indecision, delaying action until the last minute or even past the point of no return. They might second-guess themselves endlessly, trying to foresee every possible negative outcome.
• Reliance on Others for Choices: Rather than trusting their own judgment, they might constantly solicit opinions from others, sometimes even implicitly asking others to make decisions for them. They seek a kind of ‘permission’ to act, shifting the responsibility if things go south.
• Hesitation in Taking Initiative: They’re less likely to be the one to kick off a new project, suggest a new idea, or volunteer for leadership roles. The risk of failure or not living up to expectations feels too great. They’d rather follow than lead, even if they have great ideas.

Social Interactions: The Fear of Judgment

Social settings can be particularly taxing for those who lack confidence, as the perceived scrutiny of others can feel overwhelming.

• Shyness and Withdrawal: They might be quiet in group settings, avoiding conversations or staying on the periphery. They might even avoid social gatherings altogether, preferring isolation to the anxiety of interaction.
• Difficulty Forming Deep Connections: The fear of rejection or not being “interesting enough” can prevent them from truly opening up and forming intimate bonds. They might keep people at arm’s length, unconsciously protecting themselves from potential hurt.
• Over-Adaptation or People-Pleasing: To avoid conflict or gain acceptance, they might chameleon their personality to fit in, agreeing with others even when they disagree internally. They’re trying to be what they think others want them to be, losing a sense of their authentic self in the process. This can be truly exhausting.

Work and Academic Performance: Undermining Potential

The workplace or classroom can be brutal arenas for individuals grappling with self-doubt.

• Underselling Abilities: Despite their skills, they might fail to advocate for themselves in performance reviews, ask for promotions, or even negotiate their salary. They simply don’t believe they deserve more or aren’t worth the extra effort.
• Avoiding Leadership Roles: Even if highly qualified, they’ll often shy away from positions of authority, preferring to be a reliable team player rather than taking the spotlight. The responsibility and scrutiny that come with leadership feel too heavy.
• Taking Criticism Poorly: Constructive criticism, which is vital for growth, can feel like a personal attack. They might become defensive, internalize the criticism as absolute proof of their inadequacy, or shut down entirely. It just reinforces their existing negative self-beliefs.
• Fear of Failure (and Success): The fear of failing can be paralyzing, leading them to avoid challenging tasks. Paradoxically, some also fear success, because success often brings increased visibility and higher expectations, which they dread not being able to meet. It’s a lose-lose scenario in their minds.

The Avoidance Trap: How Lack of Confidence Limits Life

One of the most insidious ways lack of confidence impacts individuals is through avoidance. It’s a self-protective mechanism that, ironically, stunts growth and prevents new, positive experiences.

1. Avoiding New Experiences and Challenges: This is a biggie. If someone fears they’ll fail or look foolish, they’re simply not going to step out of their comfort zone. Whether it’s learning a new skill, trying a new sport, or taking on a new project at work, the potential for perceived failure outweighs the potential for growth and enjoyment. They might even turn down opportunities that could genuinely benefit them, all because of that nagging doubt.
2. Staying in Comfort Zones: While comfort zones offer safety, they also limit personal and professional development. People lacking confidence tend to stick to what they know, even if it’s not fulfilling, because the unknown is too scary. They might stay in a dead-end job or a less-than-ideal relationship because the thought of navigating change feels too overwhelming. It’s easier to tolerate the familiar discomfort than risk the uncertain.
3. Procrastination Driven by Fear: Often, procrastination isn’t just laziness; it’s a symptom of deeper fears. Someone with low self-esteem might put off tasks because they fear they won’t do a good job, or they won’t meet expectations, or they just won’t measure up. The longer they delay, the more overwhelming the task becomes, creating a vicious cycle of anxiety and avoidance.

The Reassurance Cycle: A Double-Edged Sword

The need for external validation is a hallmark behavior, yet it rarely provides lasting relief.

1. Constantly Seeking External Validation: People who are under-confident often look to others to affirm their worth. They might ask for opinions repeatedly, post on social media seeking likes and comments, or consistently check in with friends or partners about their decisions. This external validation provides a temporary boost, but it doesn’t build intrinsic self-worth. It’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it – the water just keeps draining out.
2. Difficulty Accepting Praise: Even when they do receive genuine praise, it’s often met with skepticism or deflection. They might believe the compliment is insincere, or that the person giving it doesn’t truly know their “real” capabilities. This inability to internalize positive feedback means that even when they succeed, their internal narrative of inadequacy remains largely untouched. It’s a tough nut to crack, trying to help someone see their own value when they’re so convinced they don’t have it.

Identifying the Signs: A Checklist for Self-Reflection or Observation

If you’re wondering whether you or someone you know exhibits behaviors consistent with a lack of confidence, this checklist might offer some clarity:

• Does the person frequently use self-deprecating humor or make negative comments about themselves?
• Do they avoid eye contact or have a generally slouched posture?
• Do they apologize frequently, even for minor or non-existent transgressions?
• Is it difficult for them to say “no” to requests, even when it’s inconvenient?
• Do they speak very softly, hesitantly, or struggle to articulate their thoughts clearly?
• Do they constantly seek reassurance or approval from others?
• When praised, do they tend to dismiss or downplay their achievements?
• Do they seem indecisive or frequently rely on others to make decisions for them?
• Are they hesitant to take on new challenges or step out of their comfort zone?
• Do they procrastinate on important tasks, especially those requiring initiative?
• Do they appear uncomfortable in social situations or tend to withdraw?
• Do they take constructive criticism very personally or become defensive?
• Do they avoid leadership roles or opportunities for self-promotion?
• Do they seem overly anxious about making mistakes or failing?
• Do they overthink past interactions, dwelling on perceived missteps?

Why Do These Behaviors Persist? Understanding the Roots

Unraveling the ‘why’ behind lack of confidence is crucial for understanding its persistence. It’s rarely just one thing, but rather a complex interplay of factors.

• Past Experiences: The Weight of History

  Early life experiences often lay the groundwork. Chronic criticism, parental neglect, bullying, or even a series of failures in childhood can plant seeds of self-doubt. If a child was constantly told they weren’t good enough, or if their efforts were always met with disapproval, that message can become internalized and carried into adulthood. Traumatic events can also shatter a person’s sense of self-worth and safety, making them question their ability to cope.

• Comparative Thinking: The Social Media Trap

  In our hyper-connected world, comparing ourselves to others has become almost second nature. Social media, in particular, often presents a curated, idealized version of reality. Seeing others’ “perfect” lives, achievements, and appearances can make an under-confident person feel even more inadequate, fueling the belief that everyone else is doing better than them. It’s a constant, unfair comparison that always leaves them feeling short-changed.

• Cognitive Biases: Distorted Lenses

  Our brains play tricks on us. Cognitive biases, like confirmation bias (seeking out information that confirms our existing beliefs) or the spotlight effect (overestimating how much others notice us), can amplify feelings of inadequacy. If someone already believes they’re not good enough, they’ll more readily notice and remember instances that confirm that belief, while dismissing evidence to the contrary. It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy of sorts, locking them into their negative perceptions.

• Societal Pressures: The Unrealistic Ideal

  Society often sets incredibly high, sometimes unattainable, standards for success, beauty, and achievement. From the media to peer groups, there’s constant pressure to be perfect, wealthy, attractive, and constantly happy. For those who feel they don’t measure up, these pressures can be crushing, reinforcing their feelings of inadequacy and making them feel like they’re failing to meet expected norms. It’s a tough environment to thrive in when you’re already feeling a bit wobbly.

Navigating Interactions with Under-Confident Individuals

Understanding these behaviors can make us more empathetic and effective when interacting with someone struggling with low confidence. Patience, genuine encouragement, active listening, and gentle affirmation can go a long way. Avoid dismissing their feelings, and instead, help them focus on their strengths and small successes, building their self-worth one brick at a time. It’s not about fixing them, but about creating an environment where they feel safe enough to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lack of Confidence and Behavior

Can a lack of confidence be mistaken for arrogance?

Absolutely, and it’s a fascinating, albeit unfortunate, misinterpretation that happens more often than you might think. Sometimes, individuals with a deep-seated lack of confidence might develop defense mechanisms that outwardly appear as arrogance or aloofness.

For instance, someone who is deeply insecure might act dismissive of others’ achievements, offer unsolicited criticisms, or even project an air of superiority. This isn’t because they genuinely believe they’re better; it’s often a protective facade. By putting others down or creating a barrier of perceived superiority, they try to prevent others from getting close enough to “discover” their perceived flaws or inadequacies. It’s a way to keep people at arm’s length, guarding against potential judgment or rejection. They might also boast excessively, not out of true self-belief, but out of a desperate need for external validation, which can come across as pompous. It’s a complex psychological defense mechanism, often born from a place of intense vulnerability and fear.

How does social media impact confidence levels and behavior?

Social media can be a real double-edged sword when it comes to confidence, often exacerbating feelings of inadequacy for those already struggling. On one hand, it offers platforms for connection and expression, but on the other, it’s a breeding ground for comparison and curated perfection.

Individuals with a lack of confidence often fall into the trap of comparing their unfiltered, everyday lives to the highlight reels of others. They see perfectly posed photos, seemingly effortless successes, and constant positive feedback, which can fuel their inner critic. This constant exposure to idealized versions of reality can make them feel like they don’t measure up, reinforcing their belief that they are somehow deficient. They might also become overly reliant on likes and comments for validation, leading to a fragile sense of self-worth tied to external approval. The pressure to present a flawless online persona can also be immense, causing anxiety and a feeling of being inauthentic, further eroding their genuine self-esteem. It’s a pretty brutal cycle that can truly mess with your head.

Is it possible for someone to be confident in one area but lack confidence in another?

Oh, absolutely! This is incredibly common and highlights the nuanced nature of confidence. Confidence isn’t a single, monolithic trait; it’s often domain-specific. Someone might be an absolute whiz in their professional field, giving presentations with ease and leading teams with authority, yet they might be completely paralyzed by social anxiety in new group settings.

Conversely, a person might be a social butterfly, charming everyone they meet, but feel utterly inept when it comes to managing their finances or public speaking. This often stems from varying experiences, learned skills, and perceived competencies in different areas of life. We tend to feel more confident in areas where we have a history of success, positive feedback, and developed expertise, while areas where we’ve faced repeated failures, criticism, or simply lack experience can trigger significant self-doubt. It’s a reminder that judging someone’s overall confidence based on one aspect of their life can be misleading.

What’s the difference between humility and a lack of confidence?

This is a super important distinction, as the two can look similar on the surface but stem from fundamentally different places. Humility is a strength; a lack of confidence is typically a hindrance.

Humility involves a realistic self-assessment, an acknowledgment of one’s strengths and weaknesses, and an openness to learning and growth. A humble person can accept praise gracefully but doesn’t let it inflate their ego; they recognize their accomplishments are part of a larger context and are often shared. They don’t need to constantly draw attention to themselves, nor do they shy away from taking credit when due. They have a secure sense of self-worth that allows them to appreciate others without feeling diminished themselves. On the other hand, a lack of confidence stems from an internalized belief of inadequacy. It leads to constant self-deprecation, an inability to accept praise, avoidance of opportunities, and a deep fear of failure or judgment. While both might lead to a person not overtly boasting, the humble person chooses not to because they don’t need to, while the under-confident person refrains because they genuinely don’t believe they deserve the spotlight or that their contributions are significant enough. It’s the difference between quiet strength and quiet fear.

Do confident people never experience self-doubt?

That’s a common misconception, and frankly, a bit of a disservice to what genuine confidence truly means. No, confident people absolutely do experience self-doubt. It’s a fundamental part of the human experience to question oneself, especially when facing new challenges, taking risks, or stepping into uncharted territory. Even the most self-assured individuals can have moments where they wonder if they’re up to the task or if they’re making the right choice.

The key difference, however, lies in how they handle that doubt. A truly confident person acknowledges the doubt, perhaps even feels it, but doesn’t let it paralyze them. They might use it as a signal to prepare more thoroughly, to seek additional information, or to reflect on their approach. They trust in their ability to navigate uncertainty, learn from potential mistakes, and ultimately, overcome obstacles. They don’t allow self-doubt to define their capabilities or prevent them from taking action. It’s not about the absence of doubt, but the presence of resilience and self-trust in the face of it. It’s like knowing you might trip, but trusting you can get back up.

How can I tell if someone is just shy or truly lacks confidence?

While shyness and a lack of confidence often overlap, they’re not exactly the same beast, though they can certainly go hand-in-hand. Understanding the distinction can help you better interpret someone’s behavior.

Shyness primarily relates to social anxiety and discomfort in new or large social situations. A shy person might be quiet, reserved, and take a while to warm up to people, but once they feel comfortable and safe, their true personality, which might include strong opinions and a good sense of humor, often emerges. They might still have a solid internal sense of self-worth; they just find the initial social hurdle difficult. They might struggle with initial interactions but, deep down, they believe they have value to contribute. A lack of confidence, on the other hand, is a deeper, more pervasive issue that touches on a person’s fundamental belief in their own capabilities and worth. Someone lacking confidence might be shy, but their behavior goes beyond social awkwardness. They might constantly self-deprecate, struggle to make decisions even outside of social contexts, avoid taking on new challenges, deflect praise, and generally operate from a place of believing they aren’t good enough, regardless of the social setting. So, while a shy person might just need time to open up, an under-confident person needs to address the underlying beliefs about their self-worth. It’s a distinction between surface-level discomfort and deep-seated self-doubt.

Can a lack of confidence lead to anger or aggression?

It absolutely can, and this is another one of those counterintuitive behaviors that often stem from deep-seated insecurity. While many people associate low confidence with shyness or withdrawal, it can manifest in more outwardly aggressive ways as a defense mechanism.

When someone feels fundamentally inadequate, they are often hypersensitive to perceived threats or criticisms. If they feel challenged, disrespected, or “exposed” in some way, their insecurity can trigger a fight-or-flight response. Anger and aggression, in these cases, can be a way to create distance, assert control, or deflect attention from their vulnerabilities. They might become overly critical of others, pick fights, or even act domineering as a way to feel powerful and mask their underlying fear of not being good enough. It’s a way of saying, “Don’t mess with me, or you’ll see how weak I really am,” without ever articulating the latter part. This behavior is a desperate attempt to protect their fragile ego and prevent others from seeing what they perceive as their flaws, making it a powerful, albeit unhealthy, coping mechanism.

What role do physical symptoms play in low confidence?

The mind-body connection is incredibly powerful, and a lack of confidence often manifests through a range of physical symptoms. These aren’t just in your head; they’re real physiological responses to the stress and anxiety associated with self-doubt.

Common physical symptoms can include a racing heart, shallow breathing, sweaty palms, stomachaches or digestive issues, muscle tension, and headaches. When a person with low confidence is faced with a situation that triggers their insecurity—like public speaking, a job interview, or a social gathering—their body can enter a stress response. This “fight, flight, or freeze” mechanism can cause these noticeable physical reactions. Over time, chronic low confidence can contribute to persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, and even a weakened immune system, as the body is constantly under a low-grade state of stress. It’s like your body is always on high alert, bracing for impact, and that wears a person down physically just as much as emotionally.

How does a lack of confidence affect career progression?

A lack of confidence can be a significant roadblock to career progression, subtly undermining opportunities and holding individuals back from reaching their full professional potential.

First off, individuals with low confidence are less likely to apply for promotions or challenging new roles, even if they are perfectly qualified. The fear of failure, or the belief that they aren’t good enough, prevents them from even putting themselves in the running. When they do take on responsibilities, they might struggle to assert their ideas in meetings, often speaking softly or using qualifiers that diminish their contributions. They might also shy away from networking opportunities, missing out on crucial connections that could advance their careers. Furthermore, they may take constructive criticism too personally, seeing it as confirmation of their inadequacies rather than an opportunity for growth. This can make them resistant to feedback, which is essential for professional development. Finally, they’re less likely to negotiate for higher salaries or better benefits, often settling for less because they don’t believe they’re worth more. All these factors combined can lead to stagnation, missed opportunities, and a career trajectory far below their actual capabilities. It’s a pretty tough uphill climb when you’re fighting yourself the whole way.

Are there specific phrases people with low confidence often use?

Yes, absolutely. People struggling with low confidence often pepper their speech with certain phrases that betray their underlying self-doubt and insecurity. Listening for these can be a strong indicator.

Common phrases include excessive apologies for minor things (“Sorry, can I just say…”), disclaimers before offering an opinion (“This might be a silly idea, but…”, “I’m not sure, but…”), and immediately downplaying successes (“It was nothing, really,” “I just got lucky,” “Anyone could have done it”). You’ll also often hear them deflect praise (“Oh, you’re too kind,” “No, no, it was a team effort entirely”) or seek constant reassurance (“Does this look okay?”, “Am I doing this right?”, “What do you think?”). They might also use minimizing language when talking about their achievements, like calling a significant project “just a small thing” or describing a major accomplishment as “not bad.” These linguistic habits serve to soften their impact, avoid drawing attention, and preemptively manage potential criticism, all stemming from that deep-seated belief that they aren’t truly capable or worthy. It’s a subtle but very telling pattern of speech.

Conclusion

The behaviors exhibited by individuals grappling with a lack of confidence are as varied as they are profound. From the silent battles fought within their own minds – the negative self-talk, the imposter syndrome, the crippling perfectionism – to the overt manifestations in their body language, communication patterns, and decision-making, the impact is pervasive. These are folks who often undersell their brilliance, shy away from opportunities, and struggle to form genuine connections, not because they are unwilling, but because a fundamental belief in their own inadequacy holds them captive.

Recognizing these signs, both in ourselves and in others, is the first critical step toward understanding and, ultimately, growth. It’s a journey that demands patience, empathy, and a willingness to challenge deeply ingrained beliefs. While the path to building genuine self-assurance might be long, understanding how people with lack of confidence behave offers a roadmap to fostering environments where everyone, including those who struggle to believe in themselves, can finally find their voice, embrace their potential, and truly shine. It’s a powerful shift from surviving to truly thriving.