I can understand why we do it, but it doesn't make perfect sense to me anymore. At the end of the day, the only person you can rely on for the things I describe

I can understand why we do it, but it doesn't make perfect sense to me anymore. At the end of the day, the only person you can rely on for the things I described is yourself. If we care about our own outcomes more than others do, then that is even more reason to be able to praise your own accomplishments, be understanding of your mistakes, and reassure yourself that no matter what you'll be "ok" - even when things are really scary and/or challenging. However, that is not to say we should not acknowledge mistakes, take accountability for actions, and constantly strive to be better. I think you have to do both though, and unfortunately, I think many people are far more self-critical as opposed to their own best advocate.