Feeling a sense of discomfort or cringing when hearing your own voice is a common phenomenon that many people experience. There are several reasons why this might occur:
Lack of Familiarity: When you hear your own voice played back in a recording, it might sound different from what you perceive when you speak. This is because when you speak, you not only hear the sound through the air but also through the vibrations conducted by the bones in your head. This bone conduction gives your voice a deeper and richer quality, which you don't hear in recordings. The unfamiliarity of your recorded voice can lead to a feeling of cringing.
Self-Criticism: People often tend to be more critical of themselves, including their voice. They might focus on perceived flaws or quirks in their speech that others might not even notice or find endearing. This self-consciousness can lead to discomfort when hearing their own voice.
Social Comparison: We are exposed to various voices in the media, on television, in movies, and on the internet. Comparing our own voices to those of professional actors, singers, or speakers can lead to feelings of inadequacy or embarrassment.
Vulnerability: Hearing your own voice can make you feel vulnerable because it is an intimate and personal aspect of yourself. This vulnerability can trigger a cringe response, especially if you are not used to hearing your own voice recorded.
Body Image and Identity: Your voice is a part of your identity, and it can be linked to your sense of self. If you feel uncomfortable or dissatisfied with other aspects of yourself, it might extend to your voice as well.
It's important to remember that people's perceptions of their own voices are subjective, and what you might cringe at, others may not even notice or have a different reaction to. Embracing and accepting your voice as a unique part of your identity can help alleviate some of the discomfort.
If the discomfort or negative feelings about your voice significantly impact your self-esteem or daily life, it may be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor. They can provide support and help you work through any underlying self-image issues or insecurities that contribute to this reaction.