It feels so good to be right about things, people and the world in general. 

We find peace and harmony when everything corresponds with our perception and understanding of things. 

When someone or something challenges this curated perception with different data or their own opinion, we're often reluctant to admit we're wrong. Even if deep inside we kinda feel that we might be wrong.

Here’s why.

Because it attacks our self-esteem. 

Most people don't like admitting they're wrong because they feel humiliated or stupid in the eyes of others.

And we generally dread that experience. Whenever we are criticized or rejected, our self-esteem suffers.

In fact, one study showed that “social pain” activated the same circuits of the brain as physical pain.

So it feels like physical pain and we stick to what we already know is right because of the fear of this feeling.

But as Anne-Laure Le Cunff puts it, the need to be right all the time is a form of fixed mindset which hampers personal growth. 

“People who base their self-worth on being right about everything prevent themselves from learning from their mistakes.” - Mark Manson

Moreover, given the amount of information we face today it’s really hard to be right all the time.

Sure you can read more, educate yourself, and listen to what people with opposing views have to say, but we are limited in our ability to digest and interpret information. 

Besides, if we all agree on everything it will be a very boring world without unexpected events and discoveries caused by our mistakes.   

Do you agree? It’s okay if you don’t.