What's so wrong with being wrong?

There’s a human phenomenon in that we as people don’t like to admit when we’re wrong.

On the surface it makes sense though, right? Our opinions and decisions are what makes and defines each one of us. Are we not just a product of every decision that we’ve made until this point?

It would therefore make sense why when people find themselves in a situation where they’ve made a mistake or been wrong, they often do one of the following:

1)      Realize they were wrong but continue to double down on their mistake rather than admit it.

2)      Realize they were wrong but deny that they ever made said mistake.

3)      Convince themselves that they were not wrong (it’s so terrible that they don’t even want to admit it to themselves!)

Between these 3 options, it become evident why so much of the time, interpersonal conflict stems from the ambivalence of admitting a mistake was made.

With the amount of unnecessary conversation, overthinking and manipulation that comes from doing any of the above, you can understand how the failure to acknowledge a mistake can negatively impact relationships. Whether it be with a spouse, friend, co-worker, employer etc. why not reap the benefit of being transparent about where you made a mistake? As people we make mistakes, so what?

Whether it’s loss of pride, fear of judgement or vulnerability that’s playing into the discomfort that comes when admitting a mistake was made, is that worse than the process involved in going through options 1, 2 and 3 above? Furthermore, if one of those factors are coming into play, why not take the time to check yourself and explore whether those are really fair concerns.

Why is being wrongs associated with pride? Who’s going to judge you? Sure, there’s an element of vulnerability in verbalizing a mistake to somebody, but is it really that bad?

It can be said that people who have a tough time with being wrong may have other underlying issues or insecurities that are at play; identifying and working on them could be a positive step in improving interpersonal relationships!

How do you feel about being wrong?  Is it really that bad?