Why do I feel the need to justify myself? This question has lingered in my mind for as long as I can remember. It’s a recurring theme that haunts me, making me question my actions, thoughts, and even my worth. The need to justify myself often stems from a deep-seated desire for acceptance and approval, a desire that can be both exhausting and soul-crushing. In this article, I will explore the reasons behind this feeling and delve into the psychological and social factors that contribute to this pervasive need for validation.
The first reason why I feel the need to justify myself is the fear of rejection. As humans, we are social beings who crave connection and belonging. We seek validation from others to ensure that we are accepted and valued. When we face criticism or disapproval, our instinct is to defend ourselves, to justify our actions, and to prove our worth. This fear of rejection can be particularly intense in relationships, where we are constantly seeking to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.
Another factor that contributes to the need to justify myself is the pressure to conform. Society often imposes certain expectations and standards on individuals, and we feel compelled to meet these expectations to be considered “normal” or “acceptable.” This pressure can manifest in various ways, such as striving for academic excellence, maintaining a certain appearance, or conforming to societal norms. When we deviate from these expectations, we feel the need to justify our choices, to explain why we are different, and to reassure others that we are still worthy of their acceptance.
Moreover, the need to justify myself can also be rooted in low self-esteem. Individuals with low self-esteem often seek validation from others to boost their sense of worth. They may feel insecure about their abilities, appearance, or accomplishments, and thus, they are constantly on the lookout for external validation to reinforce their self-worth. This can lead to a cycle of self-doubt and a persistent need to justify themselves in order to gain the approval they seek.
Furthermore, social media and the internet have exacerbated the need to justify ourselves. In the age of social media, we are constantly exposed to the highlight reels of others’ lives, which can make us feel inadequate and compelled to justify our own choices. The pressure to present a perfect image and constantly seek validation from online followers can be overwhelming, leading to a heightened need to justify ourselves in our daily lives.
In conclusion, the need to justify myself is a complex issue that can stem from various psychological and social factors. The fear of rejection, pressure to conform, low self-esteem, and the influence of social media all contribute to this pervasive need for validation. Recognizing the root causes of this feeling is the first step towards addressing it. By fostering self-acceptance, developing a strong sense of self-worth, and cultivating healthy relationships, we can begin to let go of the need to justify ourselves and embrace our true selves.
