We often treat our personal lives as an element or activity that needs approval from others. But there are situations where excessive explanation is unnecessary, and can even damage our self-confidence and blur our boundaries.
We often find ourselves giving annoying explanations to others, even though we have no motive to do so. Therefore, we must understand that there are times when we do not want to reveal details about ourselves or we should not insist on knowing certain specific things about others.
These are 7 cases when we don't have to give any explanation to anyone:
1. When you set boundaries for your time
Your time is not public property.
Instead of long stories about why you can't go out to dinner or why you don't go out more, try saying, "I don't feel like it." Most people respect a clear answer more than an excuse that wears you out.
2. Personal choices that don't affect anyone else
Whether you want to have children or not, whether you'll get married, or how you spend your money are decisions that don't require the approval of others. You don't have to argue why you won't go somewhere, or why you've started pursuing a new passion.
Your life is not a group project.
3. Why did you leave a job or relationship?
“It wasn't for me” or “We went our separate ways” are more than enough.
People may be curious, but that doesn't mean you have to divulge every detail of a breakup or layoff, especially when the comments we receive afterward aren't helpful, but hidden judgments.
4. Health decisions
Whether it's medical treatments, therapy, diet, or choosing not to pursue certain interventions, these are personal decisions.
“I am being treated by my doctor” is a complete answer. So is “I feel good about this approach.”
Exceptions are cases where decisions affect the safety of others, for example, during infectious diseases.
5. Financial decisions that don't involve shared money
How you manage your finances is your business. Whether you save for early retirement, live in a smaller apartment so you can travel more, or buy expensive running shoes, that's your choice.
Those who criticize your spending rarely share their budget with you.
6. Why don't you attend social events?
You might not go to a work party because you don't like noisy environments, or avoid family vacations because they stress you out. That doesn't make you bad, it just makes you aware of what you prefer.
Don't feel obligated to explain yourself to anyone.
7. Personal standards and boundaries
Maybe you don't drink alcohol, you don't hang out with people who don't share certain values with you, or you refuse to work for companies that conflict with your ethics.
These are not "whims", they are decisions that represent who you are. And you don't have to explain them, convince anyone.
"This doesn't work for me" is a more than sufficient sentence.
