10 things you don’t owe anyone an explanation for (no matter what they say)

It’s a fact of life – people are going to question your choices. But here’s another fact – you don’t always owe them an explanation.

Whether it’s your career path, personal decisions or even what you had for breakfast, some people believe they’re entitled to an explanation for everything you do. Spoiler alert: they’re not.

Your life, your rules. You get to choose what you disclose and what stays private.

Let me share with you 10 things that you don’t owe anyone an explanation for, no matter what they say.

1) Your life choices

We all make choices in our lives, some big, some small. Whether it’s your career path, your choice of partner, or even your decision to move to a different city, these are your decisions to make.

Here’s a reality check – you don’t owe anyone an explanation for these choices. Not your parents, not your friends, not even your significant other.

It’s essential to remember that you’re the one who has to live with the consequences of these choices. Hence, you’re the one who should have the final say.

Of course, it’s always good to consider advice and opinions from people you trust. But at the end of the day, if you’re comfortable with your decision, that’s all that matters.

2) Your dietary habits

Let me tell you about the time I turned vegetarian. It was a personal choice fueled by my own reasons and beliefs. Yet, at every dinner party, every family gathering, there always seemed to be someone who would question my dietary habits. “Why are you a vegetarian?” “Don’t you miss meat?”

I soon realized that, while some were genuinely interested, others were just looking for a debate or an opportunity to make me second-guess my choice.

Here’s the truth: your dietary habits are your business alone. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or a meat-lover, you don’t owe anyone an explanation for why you eat what you eat. As long as you’re maintaining a healthy diet that suits your body and lifestyle, you have nothing to justify to anyone.

3) Your relationship status

Whether you’re single, in a relationship, married, or divorced, it’s your personal business. It’s interesting to note that more people are choosing to remain single. In fact, a Pew Research Center study found that 50% of U.S. adults are not married.

Regardless of the statistics, your relationship status is something you don’t have to justify or explain to anyone. If you’re happy and content with where you stand in your love life, that’s all that matters.

Remember, being single or in a relationship doesn’t define your worth or happiness. So the next time someone questions your relationship status, feel free to keep the explanation to yourself if you wish.

4) Your appearance

Whether you prefer dressing casually or love to make a fashion statement, your appearance is your personal choice. You express yourself through your clothes, hairstyles, and accessories. That’s your prerogative and no one else’s business.

Some people might comment on your appearance or make unsolicited suggestions. But remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation for the way you look.

Your body, your rules. As long as you’re comfortable and happy with how you present yourself, that’s all that matters. 

5) Your past

We all have a past. Some memories are filled with joy and laughter, while others may be steeped in pain and regret. Regardless, your past has shaped you into the person you are today.

However, you don’t owe anyone a detailed account of your past. It’s entirely up to you who you choose to share your personal history with.

It’s important to remember that your past is just that – past. It doesn’t define your present or your future. 

6) Your decision to have or not have children

This is an incredibly personal choice. Some people dream of holding their newborn in their arms and raising a family. Others might decide to focus on their career, travel, or other personal pursuits instead of having children.

Both choices are equally valid.

Your decision to become a parent or not is entirely yours to make. It’s a life-changing choice that requires deep thought and consideration. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your decision, regardless of societal or familial expectations.

If you choose to remain childless or if you’re planning to have a big family, remember that it’s your life, your choice. And it’s okay not to explain your reasons to anyone if you don’t want to.

7) Your choice of solitude

I’ve always found comfort in my own company. It gives me time to recharge, think, and simply be. However, there were always those who didn’t quite understand it. “Don’t you get lonely?” “Why don’t you go out more?”

Here’s the thing – enjoying solitude doesn’t mean you’re lonely. Whether you prefer to spend your Friday night curled up with a good book, or you need some alone time after a long day, it’s entirely your call.

You don’t owe anyone an explanation for valuing your alone time. It’s important to honor your own needs and do what makes you feel content and at peace.

8) Your financial choices

You might choose to live frugally even if you earn a high income. Or you might decide to invest in experiences rather than material possessions. These are your choices to make, not anyone else’s.

Your financial habits and decisions are personal and don’t need to be justified to anyone. It’s important to remember that everyone’s financial situation is different, and what works for one person might not work for another.

Whether you’re saving every penny or splurging on a luxury vacation, it’s your money, your choice. The next time someone questions your financial decisions, remember that you have the right to keep your reasons private.

9) Your belief system

Religion, spirituality, ethics, morals – these are deeply personal and often a significant part of our identity. They guide our actions, shape our worldview and give us a sense of purpose.

But here’s the thing – just like your fingerprint, your belief system is uniquely yours. You might follow a certain faith, subscribe to a specific philosophy or abide by your own set of values.

And you don’t owe anyone an explanation or justification for your beliefs. The next time someone questions your faith or belief system, remember that it’s perfectly okay to keep such personal matters to yourself.

10) Your self-care routine

Take a nap in the middle of the day, read a book instead of going to a party, or simply sit in silence with a cup of tea. These might seem like small acts, but they’re crucial for your mental and physical well-being.

Your self-care routine is sacred. It’s what keeps you grounded, gives you strength and helps you navigate through life’s challenges. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for taking care of yourself.

When someone questions your self-care routine, remember that it’s your right to prioritize your well-being without having to justify it to anyone.

Final thoughts: Embrace your sovereignty

The beauty of being human lies in our individuality. Our choices, our preferences, our paths – they’re all unique to us.

We must remember that it’s okay to keep parts of our lives private. Not owing anyone an explanation doesn’t mean we’re cold or standoffish. It’s a testament to our sovereignty over our lives.

As Virginia Woolf once wrote, “No need to hurry. No need to sparkle. No need to be anybody but oneself.”

So whether it’s your lifestyle choices, your financial decisions, or your self-care routine, remember that you don’t owe anyone an explanation for living life on your terms.

Embrace the power of your decisions. Own your choices. And most importantly, live your truth without apologies.