Unpacking the Habit- Why I Can’t Stop Over Explaining Myself

by liuqiyue

Why do I always over explain myself? This question has been haunting me for years, and it seems to be a recurring theme in my life. Whether it’s in conversations with friends, interactions at work, or even during family gatherings, I find myself going into great detail to explain the simplest of things. It’s as if I feel the need to justify my actions, thoughts, and feelings, often leaving others feeling overwhelmed and confused. In this article, I will explore the reasons behind this tendency and discuss ways to overcome it.

One possible reason for my over-explaining behavior is a fear of being misunderstood. Growing up, I often felt that my words were not being heard or that I was not being understood by others. This fear has since followed me into adulthood, making me overly cautious about my communication. I believe that by over-explaining, I can ensure that my message is clear and that others will have a better understanding of my perspective.

Another factor that contributes to my tendency to over explain myself is my personality. I am naturally a very thoughtful and analytical person. I enjoy delving into the details and understanding the nuances of a situation. This inclination has led me to believe that others share the same level of interest and attention to detail, which is not always the case. Consequently, I find myself explaining things to a level that may be unnecessary or overwhelming for others.

Additionally, my upbringing has played a role in my over-explaining behavior. My parents were always very communicative and encouraged me to express myself openly. While this has helped me develop strong communication skills, it has also instilled in me a sense of duty to always provide explanations. This has become a habit that is hard to break, even when it’s not required.

So, how can I overcome this tendency to over explain myself? One approach is to become more aware of my communication style and the impact it has on others. By practicing mindfulness and being conscious of my words, I can avoid going into unnecessary detail. Another strategy is to learn to listen actively and empathize with others, which can help me understand their perspective and adapt my communication accordingly.

Furthermore, I can set boundaries for my conversations and recognize that it’s not always necessary to provide an explanation for every situation. By doing so, I can foster more meaningful and concise interactions with others, while also reducing the risk of overwhelming them with information.

In conclusion, the question of why I always over explain myself is a complex one, rooted in a combination of fear, personality, and upbringing. By becoming more mindful of my communication style and setting boundaries, I can work towards a more balanced and effective way of interacting with others. Ultimately, this will not only improve my relationships but also enhance my own sense of self-awareness and confidence.

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