Does anybody obsess over the fact that they’re not smart enough or that they’re not an “intellectual”?

Yeah! Ocd loves attacking whatever hurts your self esteem. But don't believe in it. Just say to it "Yeah, sure i may not be smart" because at the end of the day there are countless perspectives on what smart is and you can be both intelligent but at the same time not , perfection doesn't exist. Embrace uncertainty because that's what we are. Uncertain beings.

Buy I feel like there’s truth in the “I’m not an intellectual” line

@MissExistential Also, what are your compulsions? I’m having a hard time identifying mine

Yes. I am considering starting grad school this fall to become an licensed professional counselor. But. I'm afraid I won't even be able to apply. My OCD keeps telling me (among other things) that I'm not smart enough for grad school and will end up flunking out. I really want to change careers. And I can't do that without going back to school. But I can't help thinking. I won't get in anyway, so why bothering trying. Its so frustrating.

I’m in grad school and it definitely feeds into this insecurity of mine. But go anyway! I feel like a fraud…but at least I’m making it and I’m almost done :)

@MissExistential Also, what are your compulsions? I’m having a hard time identifying mine

Yes 100%. That is one of the reasons I am an introvert because I think people will think I’m stupid, superficial, and have no substance.

Then it seems like ocd is not letting you be yourself. Disobey it and you won't regret it. Do what it considers illogical.

Also, what are your compulsions? I’m having a hard time identifying mine

And exactly! I’m so afraid of coming off stupid!

@MissExistential I think me not expressing my self or showing who I truly and holding back what I want to say most of the time is my compulsion.

@Hhrose1 it makes the ocd happy because it’s getting what it wants when I don’t say thing I want to out of fear.