I Need Answers to This

I’m in my early 20s and have been reflecting on something that’s been bothering me. Why do so many of us crave external validation instead of trusting our own gut instincts? Like why do we wait for someone else to confirm our feelings, opinions, or choices? How do you stop caring so much about what others think?

I know people say, “Just trust your gut,” but sometimes that’s easier said than done when you’re constantly second-guessing yourself.