Your brain processes social rejection using the same brain circuits it uses for physical pain—which means a dismissive comment can hurt as much as a stubbed toe. No wonder so many of us have become experts at shrinking: saying less, risking less, and abandoning the things that matter just to avoid that sting.
You promise yourself you’ll finally start eating better and walking every morning to feel more energized and clear‑headed. Maybe you even post about it online—until an old co‑worker mocks your “cringe health kick” and suddenly, your motivation wobbles.
