Posted by Renee N on January 5, 2000, at 8:05:59
In reply to my particular obsession (longish), posted by CarolAnn on January 5, 2000, at 7:53:18
> Hey Ya'll,
> I am pretty sure that I don't have OCD, but there is one thing that I cannot stop doing no matter how *well* I am feeling. I am and have always been totally obsessed with wondering what other people think of me, as well as the idea that everyone(and I do mean everyone)I come into contact with absolutely *must* be made to like me. I cannot bear to think that anyone in the world dislikes me. Even good friends are sometimes suspected of not really *liking* me, or being secretly angry with me. I know this is irrational, I mean they wouldn't be my friends if they didn't like me(oh lord, I'm starting to sound like Sally Field). Well, anyway the main problem is the obsession of constantly wanting to *know* exactly what people(any people) are feeling about me, the person I am. I know, I need to get some counseling on this, it's definitly related to my life-long low self-esteem, which I thought was improving due to the fact that *I* actually like myself now(usually). Boy, just when you think you have a handle on stuff, something new comes along and says,"hey, what about me? It's my turn to come to the surface and torment you a little". Any thoughts, suggestions, or fellow sufferers? Also, is this what co-dependency is? Thanks for you support!CarolAnnI always think I can tell what people really think about me and others, even if it doesn't match their words. I truly believe I am quite perceptive, but may exaggerate this abilty to myself. If my husband had a frown, I assume he is angry or dissapointed with me. We all know what assuming makes u + me! Low self esteem probably explains alot. Although at work I usually think people like me and think I am talented at what I do and caring. Hate to brag like that, but it sure feels good!
poster:Renee N
thread:18076
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000101/msgs/18079.html