The inferiority complex describes a deep, persistent sense that we are lesser than others. The term was introduced by psychologist Alfred Adler, who believed we all start with some feelings of inferiority in childhood — but for some people these stay and become a fixed lens through which they see themselves.
Imagine someone who, no matter how much they achieve, feels unworthy, who constantly compares themselves with others and always comes out short, or who avoids opportunities for fear of being exposed. Sometimes the same feeling hides behind an excessive need for validation, or even behind aggressive self-promotion.
Psychologically, the inferiority complex is fed by harsh inner voices and by comparisons that are unfair from the start — we compare our own backstage with other people's highlight reel. Low self-esteem is not the truth about who we are; it is a habit of thinking that was learned and can be unlearned.
The antidote is not false superiority, but a fairer, more compassionate view of yourself. By working on your beliefs and on self-care, your self-image can gradually become more realistic and warmer. See how working on self-esteem can help.