Day 5: something you would change about the world
I'd like to change the way people see others.
We are so intrinsically wired to view people on superficial criteria the minute we see them and form rock-solid opinions about them. Looks, attitude, status, height, body shape- is that what defines a person? Worse, is that how I define a person and how people define me? That's quite awful.
Take me for example. I'm of average height, not in too good a shape, I do not wear brands (nor can I afford them), and am philosophical and artistic (that is what I think of myself as). But do others see me as plain, fat, dowdy, spaced out and nerdy? Yikes!
I recently read about a different way to approach people. To judge them not for physical attributes but to regard them as potential friend material. At first it sounds silly, but then realization dawned. It's actually a great idea. I tried it and found it quite uplifting. This notion helps me try to draw the other person into a conversation, discuss hobbies and interests, share stories and best, give me a calmer and more positive mood.
I am not saying it is easy but it is fun and it earns me a good image if not great friends. Also, I actually am avoiding forming snappy and catty opinions about others and instead focussing on the virtues of a person. Now isn't that lovely?
I'd like to change the way people see others.
We are so intrinsically wired to view people on superficial criteria the minute we see them and form rock-solid opinions about them. Looks, attitude, status, height, body shape- is that what defines a person? Worse, is that how I define a person and how people define me? That's quite awful.
Take me for example. I'm of average height, not in too good a shape, I do not wear brands (nor can I afford them), and am philosophical and artistic (that is what I think of myself as). But do others see me as plain, fat, dowdy, spaced out and nerdy? Yikes!
I recently read about a different way to approach people. To judge them not for physical attributes but to regard them as potential friend material. At first it sounds silly, but then realization dawned. It's actually a great idea. I tried it and found it quite uplifting. This notion helps me try to draw the other person into a conversation, discuss hobbies and interests, share stories and best, give me a calmer and more positive mood.
I am not saying it is easy but it is fun and it earns me a good image if not great friends. Also, I actually am avoiding forming snappy and catty opinions about others and instead focussing on the virtues of a person. Now isn't that lovely?
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