Feels like I expect defeat
Every time something difficult comes up, I already picture myself failing before I even begin. It reminds me of how I stopped taking classes because I believed I was not smart enough after one bad grade. Can you explain learned helplessness examples and how to overcome it? I need practical ideas that actually make sense.
5 vistas
I had a similar loop after failing one programming exam - I instantly labeled myself “not smart enough” and stopped trying. That’s basically learned helplessness: one bad result becomes your whole identity. What helped me was doing tiny attempts (10–15 min), tracking even small progress, and forcing a second try no matter what. I found this explanation really relatable mid-way through my own struggle: learned helplessness in depression and anxiety - it breaks it down simply. Also, catch your self-talk early, it’s usually harsher than reality.