I was speaking to a friend who was mentioning that she is annoyed about a colleague who cannot stop talking about other colleagues in a negative way, specifically targeting one.
This got me thinking about how our perceptions change towards others based on what we hear, sometimes even before we have ever met that person.
Yes, the right way is to not judge anyone by other people’s views on them nor their experience but base it solely on ours.
But do we really do that?
Subconsciously do we form an opinion on hearsay?
Probably yes. Irrespective of our best intentions.
As a society we are already extremely judgemental from the way we need to look, dress, eat, live etc. we are expected to fit into the ‘norms’, if God forbid we don’t and try to do our own thing out of the box we are labelled as eccentric, different, not sophisticated and even weird and if we are in the unfortunate category of not fitting into the perceived perfect body type? shock horrors! this is something where we are always made conscious of by shop assistants, friends and even our own family.
It is also common that a physically attractive person gets more attention naturally than a person who might not be as attractive, again it is the deep-rooted conditioning which makes us more attracted to someone who presents well or looks good in the traditional sense of the way. Slim, tall, well dressed etc. In the process we could be missing out on the person who has lot more to offer us on a psychological level which is more valuable in the long run.
Be mindful not to discuss others in a derogatory or a judgmental way in front of your kids. As their impressionable minds take it on and it stays with them for a long time and sometimes even changes their perceptions forever. It could unconsciously perpetuate bias in their thinking based on physical attributes, race, religion etc.
It is also important not to tease our kids even in a playful way making them feel less, especially if you are teasing them about something which they are already sensitive about. It might be a joke to you but could have a deeper impact on the child. They also might perceive it that teasing is acceptable behaviour which could lead to bullying behaviour towards other kids which they might think is ok. Accepting differences starts at home.
The bottom line is let us try to rise about the psychological conditioning, Give people a chance, question what you hear and have confidence in your own judgement.
Mental health awareness should become an important part of our way of life, as a society we must be mindful of the impact our words and actions have on others mental health.
A fellow human to another the least we can do is not to form any judgement or opinion before knowing or meeting the person. Let them make an impression on us. Use your first-hand experience with that person to make your perception. We both deserve that chance. Don’t you think so?
At Health Academy we offer over 30 courses in Psychology, mental health and Counselling, feel free to check them out!
Vahini Panda
About the Author: Vahini is the CEO and Founder of Health Academy Australia and Health Courses Australia. She is multi faceted in her skills and expertise which is backed by 20 years experience in the areas of education, health, ecommerce and Information Technology. She is a CEO, Passionate business owner, Author, Blogger, Nutritionist, Digital marketing expert and a Mum.
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