I posted the following as a reply to someone's comment in another post, but as I was typing it on the spot, it came so natural and seemed so accurate and I wonder if other people deal with this constant nagging notion that I deal with and how they cope with it.  The topic of the post was self-awareness and always being in check of one's self.  Here's what I had to say about constantly being self aware of yourself to not offend or turn others off:

My problem with that is that while I do place a high value on self awareness, I know that not everyone has to be so self aware all the time. And being aware of yourself and constantly governing your actions and attitudes isn't a sustainable way to live. Especially when there are multitudes of absolutely normal, likable people out there who don't have to put forth that effort at all really. Then you have people who totally lack self awareness because they just aren't experienced enough to realize they should have it, or are naive in thinking there is nothing wrong with them. Then even THOSE people seem to be infinitely more likable than I perceive myself to be in my head anyway.

I feel like it's ok for other people to get mad, and other people will understand. But if I do, I'm an asshole.

I feel like it's ok for other people to be sensitive and understanding, and other people will appreciate them for it. But if I do, I'm a soft pushover.

I feel like it's ok for other people to be available and there for people, and people will value them for it. But if I do, I'm needy.

I feel like it's ok for other people to be self centered and "look out for #1", and people will admire them for their achievements. But if I do it, I'm a selfish asshole.

I'm constantly in check of myself, but no matter which way I sway myself, I find fault with it and I feel like other people's perception of me is always going to be the worst. And maybe it is.