“I’m Fine” and Other Lies We Tell Ourselves

Woman reflecting quietly, representing emotional exhaustion and the habit of saying “I’m fine” when overwhelmed
“I’m fine” is often the phrase we use when something deeper needs care.

We say it every day.
With a smile.
With a shrug.
With a practiced tone that doesn’t invite questions.

“I’m fine.”

Even when we’re overwhelmed.
Even when we’re hurting.
Even when we’re nowhere close to okay.

The Lies We Whisper to Keep Going

These aren’t always big, bold lies.
They’re often quiet and convincing—just believable enough to silence the truth.

“It’s not that bad.”
“Other people have it worse.”
“I’m just tired.”
“I’ll deal with it later.”
“I should be over this by now.”
“I’ll do it tomorrow.”

Sound familiar?

We’ve been conditioned to press on, to be strong, to carry it well. But the longer we repeat these quiet lies, the more disconnected we become from what we actually need.

Why We Do It

We lie to ourselves because:

  • We’re afraid of what might unravel if we tell the truth

  • We think acknowledging the pain will make it too real

  • We don’t want to burden anyone else

  • We’re exhausted and don’t know how to explain what feels off

But what if telling the truth—even just to yourself—wasn’t weakness?

What if it was the beginning of relief?

What the Truth Can Sound Like

Truth doesn’t have to be dramatic or polished. Sometimes it sounds like:

  • “I’m not okay, and I don’t want to pretend anymore.”

  • “I’ve been holding a lot, and I need support.”

  • “I want to heal, but I’m scared.”

  • “This hurts more than I’ve admitted.”

  • “I keep saying ‘tomorrow,’ but I need help now.”

You don’t have to share your truth with everyone.
But you do deserve a space where the truth can breathe.

That Space Might Be Therapy

At NewVision Therapy, I work with women who are tired of pretending—women who have learned how to function, but are longing to feel lighter, clearer, and more supported.

Therapy doesn’t require you to have all the answers.
It simply offers a place where you don’t have to say “I’m fine” anymore.

If this reflection resonates, you’re welcome to reach out to learn more about therapy services or explore whether support might be helpful for you right now.

👉🏽 Visit NewVision Therapy to learn more or get in touch.

A Final Thought

“I’m fine” might get you through the day.
But truth—spoken in safety—creates room for healing.

You’re allowed to tell the truth.
And you don’t have to face it alone.