c/self-esteem·Posted by u/nora_klein·12h ago

Why do I feel like I have to earn the right to have an opinion in a group of friends?

We were picking a hiking trail in a group chat. I know those trails. I have done the muddy one that looks pretty on the map and ruins shoes. I still waited for three other people to talk before I said anything, and then I phrased it like a question. 'Would the shorter one be better?' I knew the shorter one would be better. I did not feel allowed to know it out loud until I had been agreeable for a few messages. Later on the trail, when it was the muddy one, nobody was mad at me. I was mad at me. I keep thinking opinions are a privilege I have not paid for yet. How do you spend a vote you already have?

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