I used to feel like I could read people. I predicted behavior. I knew what others around me would do before they would do it. I people watched. I studied. My field is the Social Sciences. I literally went to college to learn about people. I was good at it, but now I have no clue what people are thinking. I like it.
Before I get into the thesis, I must remind others that whole industries are built around understanding people and manipulating their behavior. I was not alone. You have marketing teams trying to get you to buy whatever. You have influencers trying to sell you on a brand lifestyle. Hell, the definition of education for a long time talked about manipulating behavior to create learning. It's in my old notes somewhere, I swear. So I was and am not alone.
Yes, I used the present tense. Every action even you do can be seen as a manipulation. A baby cries, a toddler throws a tantrum, a teenager gets a really bad haircut (I got a few.) We all try to predict others behaviors and then seize to use them. Do not think you are above everyone else.
Now back on track. I am out of this game for two reasons I hate it and I rather focus on myself. This type of behavior takes away free will. Changing the course of events to get the desired outcomes just leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Yes, I understand this idea is used to get a better job or win the big game but with people it is just manipulative. I do not care how good the intentions are and if the person ends up doing better because of your actions, it is just manipulative. It is insulting. Finally, I should be using these tactics on myself. I could use them. Why shouldn't I get ahead? Why shouldn't I have a good day? Why shouldn't I force myself to learn new?
So I am out. Yes, it will be hard to drop all that training I learned as a teacher but I am out. I do not want to know what others are thinking, unless I am having a conversation. So until we have that conversation I am out.
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