Body language
It’s difficult to remember that what we perceive to be true may not even be close to the truth. As humans we have a tendency to look at a person and make assumptions about what they are thinking or feeling based on their appearance, through body language, facial expressions or personal distance. Most of the time we make sweeping generalizations. However, we will never know their thoughts or feelings unless we stop assuming and instead start interacting.
Think about the people in your life that you just know you have figured out. Now, think again. Are you making a generalization about that person based on a few encounters or have you stopped and taken the time to get to know them and understand from their point of view.
We are all guilty of this. I think our human nature automatically assesses each situation based on fight verses flight. However, I think our conscience and morality should stop us from judging and help us to embrace others. Today, consider the people in your life that you don’t know very well and talk to them instead of trying to figure out what they are thinking and getting it all wrong.
