c/self-esteem·Posted by u/malik_j·1h ago

Why did I apologize for taking up space in a group photo?

We took a team photo after an offsite lunch. I was on the end. When they showed the preview I said "sorry, I can scoot in" even though I was already half off the frame. Someone said "you're fine" and I still stepped sideways until my shoulder was behind someone else's. In the final shot you can barely see me, which I told myself was better. Later I caught myself doing the same thing in a restaurant selfie with two friends: "I can crop myself." They didn't ask me to. I keep acting like my face is an extra they have to work around. I want to stand in a photo like I was invited to be in it. How do you stop shrinking at the exact moment someone is trying to include you?

Peer discussion on askDr.app. Not therapy and not a substitute for professional care.