We don't see things as THEY are...
We see things as we are.
This being good and bad simultaneously got stuck in my head so I felt like writing about it (no facts, just thoughts).
Let's go!
We often expect others to behave as we would in certain situations, forgetting that their thought patterns may be entirely different. This means we don't have the right to automatically resent them for not acting the way we would, right?
Not to mention, assuming stuff about others remains a common thing in our society as we all know by now. We tend to make assumptions about what others like, who they are, what they do, what they think, how they behave and whatnot.
How about being curious and showing real interest in others, giving them a chance to show who they really are instead of filling it in for them? Every generation does this, but an example that everyone should recognize is how some (!) older people often stare at and talk about those with tattoos, piercings, coloured hair, fun clothes, you name it. Basically all ways of expressing ones personality. It seems like anything that shows personality is looked down upon by this group, which is just one example of how assumptions affect our perception of reality and how we act in it.
Wether we like it or not.. Experiences, cultural/religious backgrounds, parents and habits are of great influence on our thought patterns by default, some of them being sneakier than others. Thankfully we can change this over time if we want to.
Even our emotional state can change our perception of reality drastically.
Stress and frustration can paralyze us, making even the smallest obstacles feel like overwhelming mountains, but when feeling joyful, the possibilities seem to be appearing out of nowhere. People are out there tackling challenges they never thought they could face, had they been in a different mood when starting.
So does this mean seeing things as we are isn't that bad after all?
The exact same words can be interpreted very differently too. When someone offers feedback, do you see it as just criticism or as an opportunity for growth? Similarly, you could consider how a compliment might be received differently if you’re feeling confident versus insecure.
Now.. hold your horses. I'm definitely not saying ALL of reality is shaped by our thinking, but I do believe we don't recognize the extent to which it actually is.
Regarding our fellow humans: Live and let live, giving others the benefit of the doubt (without being naive), all that jazz. It does work. :) Yet, it may also help to be aware of things like the halo effect. One good quality does apparently not equal a 'perfect' person, who knew!