7 Things You Need To Do To Improve Yourself And Your Surroundings

As humans we tend to do things without really paying attention to it. Whether it’s a simple mistake or being pressured into activities, the important thing is how you react to these actions once they occur. Here are seven tips to help you fix a few of these important issues.

1. Why we don’t admit to our mistakes

The reason we hate admitting our mistakes is because it creates cognitive dissonance. This comes from having to deal with two conflicting ideas in our minds. Instead of admitting our mistakes, we make up self-justification which makes us cling to our mistakes/bad behaviors.

2. Own up to your actions

Humans tend not to admit they made a mistake. This is because it contradicts their perception of themselves that they are never wrong. To fix this, start admitting to the mistakes you made and own them.

3. The more distance, the easier the deed

You are more likely to cheat on something/someone when there is a psychological distance between you and the deed being done. Keeping the extra money your waiter gave you and making the choice to cheat on your significant other are two examples. It’s more damaging to cheat on your spouse than to take the extra money.

4. Think outside your box, not inside others

We have a tendency to follow anyone that acts like an authoritative figure. They show confidence and knowledge, and that makes us feel comfortable. Although we act like this is not our fault since we were taught at a young age to follow instructions from our elders or leaders, it is important to realize the significance of your own decisions.

5. Stop letting peer pressure rule you

Dramatic changes for the worse occur through the manipulation of mundane aspects of human nature. The most common social dynamic is peer pressure because of the power of multiple people persuading you, it is easy to conform and be obedient.

6. Stop trying to hide from your inner biases

We consciously believe it is wrong to discriminate on the basis of race, class, gender or sexual orientation. However unfortunately we carry unconscious biases which we largely have no control over. Implicit association tests are where many of these biases show up.  

7. Don't fall into the trap of manipulative kindness

As humans it is expected that when you do something kind, you will receive a kind act in return. This is the rule of reciprocation, and it is shown through kindness and trust. It can be a great thing in keeping peace and doing good deeds. Just don't let yourself get caught in a situation where you are being taken advantage of for your kindness.