Do you believe the balance between our focus on the positives and negatives has an optimal state or are we necessarily in various states of flux regarding how we regard others? — I like sushi
As an additional and more personal question, do you find it hard to be nice to people? — I like sushi
This short list of negatives, which could be significantly longer, should answer your first question. — Shawn
Generally we tend to focus more on the negatives in fellow humans than on the positives. — I like sushi
Do you believe the balance between our focus on the positives and negatives has an optimal state or are we necessarily in various states of flux regarding how we regard others? — I like sushi
As an additional and more personal question, do you find it hard to be nice to people? — I like sushi
I don't mention or even notice that every slice of bread is delicious and satisfying, but the odd mouldy crust gets my attention. — unenlightened
Do you see this as a persistent trend or one that has waxed or waned over time? — I like sushi
The balance between focusing on the positives and negatives in our perception of others is indeed complex and can be influenced by various factors. While there may not be a one-size-fits-all "optimal" state, achieving a healthy balance is important for well-being and effective relationships.
Cognitive Biases: Our focus can be swayed by cognitive biases. For example, confirmation bias might lead us to emphasize negative traits if we already hold a negative view, or to focus on positive traits if we have a positive outlook. Awareness of these biases can help us strive for a more balanced view.
Context and Situation: Our perceptions can shift based on context. In a stressful situation, we might be more inclined to notice negatives, whereas in a supportive environment, positive traits might stand out more. Recognizing these situational influences can help us adjust our focus as needed.
Personal Growth and Self-Awareness: Striving for self-awareness and personal growth can lead to a more balanced perspective. By reflecting on our own tendencies and working to understand and empathize with others, we can better manage our focus on positives and negatives.
Interpersonal Dynamics: Relationships themselves can affect how we view others. Trust and understanding built over time often lead to a more balanced view, whereas conflicts or misunderstandings might skew our perception towards the negative.
Overall, while we might be in various states of flux regarding how we regard others, actively working towards a balanced perspective—by being mindful of our biases, understanding the context, and striving for empathy—can help us achieve a healthier and more constructive outlook. — chatgpt.com
To the degree they are interesting (i.e. unfamiliar), I agree. — 180 Proof
Some enchanted evening
Someone may be laughin',
You may hear her laughin'
Across a crowded room
And night after night,
As strange as it seems
The sound of her laughter
Will sing in your dreams.
Who can explain it?
Who can tell you why?
Fools give you reasons,
Wise men never try.
Lovely. :flower:Thread Title: People Are Lovely
To the degree they are interesting (i.e. unfamiliar), I agree.— 180 Proof
Well, that's an interesting perspective :chin: — Amity
Familiarity breeds ... "bizarre and beautiful spider" bites.The unfamiliar certainly holds its attraction, as can the familiar.
Or mistaken identity – shock of recognition – (like "seeing a ghost"). Btw, I don't care for musicals. :meh:Your words had a strange effect. I thought: 'strangers across a crowded room'. First Love?
Familiarity breeds ... "bizarre and beautiful spider" bites. — 180 Proof
Or mistaken identity – shock of recognition – (like "seeing a ghost"). Btw, I don't care for musicals — 180 Proof
Do you believe the balance between our focus on the positives and negatives has an optimal state or are we necessarily in various states of flux regarding how we regard others? — I like sushi
And this --Do you believe the balance between our focus on the positives and negatives has an optimal state or are we necessarily in various states of flux regarding how we regard others?
As an additional and more personal question, do you find it hard to be nice to people?
As this is a personal question I should probably answer it myself. My answer is YES. — I like sushi
I do not find it hard to be nice to people. But, like Tom, I don't have real expectations of people -- in general. Except when it's within a context:I tend to find people are mostly friendly and helpful. Drivers less so. I have no real expectations of people and make no pronouncements about human nature. Culture and situations tend to shape behaviour. I am not often seen as rude but I have been known to give the odd person a rocket up the arse (as we say in Australia) but I don’t often need to. — Tom Storm
I figure our response is something we do not know ourselves. — Paine
People have different limits of what they are ready to do in sudden events. Some by training, some by instinct...I figure our response is something we do not know ourselves. — Paine
I note this has been placed under 'Ethics', so is it a case that our behaviour to others reflects, is related to our taste and liking (aesthetics)? Are we more forgiving of friends than those we perceive as being hostile to us. Happier when we find beauty within and give expression to that in a smile, laughter and hope. Compared to feeling bad when we sense an ugly, mean spirit expressing hate?
Do you believe the balance between our focus on the positives and negatives has an optimal state or are we necessarily in various states of flux regarding how we regard others?
— I like sushi
I think humans are necessarily in a state of flux, depending on mood and circumstances. And what we digest - reading, listening, looking and learning, eating and drinking. If there is an intake imbalance, then our output might likewise be affected. The more we can be open to another perspective, no matter our 'likes/dislikes', the more we might understand and less likely to become unlovely, narrow-minded bigots. — Amity
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