Why Do I Over Explain Myself?
Overexplaining is a common problem, and one of the most frustrating things that can happen in a conversation. While you may think that it’s necessary to explain yourself as thoroughly as possible, it can actually be more damaging than helpful in some cases.
1. Trying to Avoid Confrontation
One of the main reasons why people tend to over explain themselves is to avoid confrontation. It’s much easier to explain yourself in great detail and make sure that you’ve covered all bases than to face the potential awkwardness from having to respond directly to a question.
2.Need for Approval
Another reason why people tend to over explain themselves is to try and secure approval from the person with whom they are speaking. Rather than trying to explain yourself as accurately and succinctly as possible, you may be more likely to try and showcase all of your knowledge. In these situations, people tend to ramble on, often going in circles and repeating themselves.
3.Lack of Self-Confidence
Overexplaining can also be an indication of a lack of self-confidence. If you’re not confident in yourself and your ideas, you may feel the need to explain yourself more, in order to make sure that the other person understands.
How to Stop Over-Explaining Yourself
- Take a Deep Breath: Before responding to a question, take a deep breath and collect your thoughts. This will give you a few seconds to think before speaking.
- Say What You Want to Say: Focus on the main idea or point you want to make and try to stick to that. Don’t feel like you need to add in extra details or over explain.
- Identify Unimportant Details: Get into the habit of noticing when you’re about to add in too much detail and go off track. If it’s not necessary, and doesn’t add to the conversation, just skip it.
By following the above tips, you can start to become more aware of when you’re overexplaining yourself and keep it to a minimum.
Why do I feel the need to over explain myself?
People may feel the need to over explain themselves for a number of reasons, such as feeling the need to be understood or justify their actions or thoughts. It can also be a sign of insecurity, feeling the need to prove oneself or fill in any gaps in the conversation. Additionally, over explaining can be a sign of low self-confidence or a lack of assertiveness. It is important to remember that it’s okay to feel the need to explain yourself- it’s natural- but try to be aware of when you may be taking it too far and try to be assertive and confident in your thoughts and actions.
What are the signs that I am over explaining myself?
1. People start to appear bored or disinterested.
2. You feel like you’re talking too long without getting your point across.
3. You find yourself repeating yourself or using extra words to explain the same thing.
4. The other person begins to interject with comments like “I get it” or “I understand”.
5. You are constantly apologizing or trying to explain why you feel the need to explain.