The Psychology Behind Sarcastic People

While some say that being busy is just an excuse, there are indeed people who live incredibly busy lives. Those who have experienced a busy life can easily understand others struggling within their own busyness. My friend A once told me that someone said to them, "You act like you're busier than the president. Stop pretending to be busy." Although it could be considered a simple joke, A was quite hurt by the comment. They sighed, wondering why they had to endure such remarks while barely having time to eat properly due to work.

Are they going to live my life for me?

Everyone takes on numerous roles within their own lives, spending their days fulfilling them. The stress and pressure we experience during this process exist for various reasons, and the nature of busyness differs from person to person. My busyness may be an invisible struggle unique to me, which could make it appear to others as if I'm exaggerating or making a fuss over nothing. Perhaps, in the eyes of others, A might have seemed to be leading a busy life while doing nothing significant. However, that's just from the perspective of others. We cannot live according to the eyes and standards of others. Nor should we.

I hope that, for the sake of their future success, A can overcome the hurt caused by others' sarcastic remarks and continue to diligently work towards their goals. While it's unlikely for an average person to be busier than the president, they may have their own unique reasons for their busy lifestyle. Furthermore, being busier than the president isn't a prerequisite for being allowed to live a busy life.

"Don't pretend to be busy" is ultimately a subjective judgment based on the speaker's own experiences and perspectives. We are the protagonists of our own lives, and our busyness is our own unique story. We have the right to live our lives authentically, not based on others' judgments. So, for now, I encourage you to keep working hard, regardless of whether you appear to be pretending to be busy or not, in the eyes of others.

※ Psychological Reasons Behind Sarcastic Remarks

1. Sarcastic individuals may indirectly express their own dissatisfaction or envy. When they see others living busy lives, they might compare their own lives and achievements, and the resulting feelings of inferiority or envy can be channeled into sarcastic remarks.

2. Some people may find it difficult to express their opinions or thoughts directly or may avoid confrontation, choosing sarcasm as a way to convey their message. In such cases, the sarcastic remarks might mask constructive criticism or suggestions, but the delivery method can lead to communication difficulties and misunderstandings.

3. There might be a psychological desire to feel superior within social relationships. Sarcasm can be used as an indirect way to show off one's status or abilities. This can be a method to boost one's self-esteem or establish a social position.

4. Some individuals might habitually use sarcasm in their communication. In such cases, sarcasm becomes their communication style, and it may not necessarily be intended to hurt the other person. However, it's important to recognize that this habit can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts in relationships.

5. Sarcastic remarks can reflect an individual's unstable emotional state. Sarcasm stemming from stress, anxiety, or depression often arises when individuals are unable to express or manage their emotions effectively.