The song expresses the struggles of being human and living up to unrealistic expectations, especially as a public figure in the music industry. The artist acknowledges that while she tries to appear perfect by staying awake for days and forcing smiles, she is ultimately only human who feels pain and pressure. The chorus emphasizes this theme, with the repetition of "I'm only human" as she explains that hurtful words can cut deep and public praise is followed by falling apart privately due to the emotional toll. She reassures herself that she will continue pursuing her music career despite the challenges of the public eye.