Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope my answer will be of some assistance to you.
I believe that we can be ourselves in this society. Being ourselves and accepting society are not mutually exclusive. It is important to recognize that society is a given, and we must adapt to it rather than resisting it. This understanding allows us to identify what we can change and what we cannot. We can then focus our efforts on the aspects we can influence, with the potential to not only change ourselves but also contribute to broader societal change.
There are three main reasons why many of us find it difficult to be ourselves. Firstly, we are influenced by our family of origin and our upbringing, which leads us to believe that we cannot be ourselves and must simply live an ordinary life. Secondly, we are influenced by the "herd instinct," which causes us to fear doing things differently from the norm. Thirdly, we are influenced by the "Jonah complex," which causes us to fear becoming "great."
Our family of origin and upbringing instill beliefs that impede our personal and professional growth.
It is possible to become aware of the voices that ring in our ears when we want to do our own thing. Do those words sound familiar? Who was the first to say those words to you?
If you can identify that these voices are influenced by early experiences, you will understand why they often arise. To change these voices, you must recognize that they can be altered. If you want to transform them into words that facilitate growth and progress, what words should you use?
In the future, you will become aware of any words that prevent you from being yourself and replace them with words that promote your development and growth. With persistent practice, you will gradually eliminate negative beliefs and establish positive ones.
Negative conformity impedes personal and professional growth.
What factors contribute to conformity in the workplace?
By aligning with the group, individuals are more likely to receive a confirmation of their decision-making process.
In essence, there are two primary motivations for conformity: the desire to be accepted and appreciated by others, or the intention to behave in an appropriate manner.
From an evolutionary psychology perspective, it is understandable that in ancient times, individuals who did not follow the crowd were at risk of being eaten by wild animals. Those who did not conform to the group were less likely to survive. Consequently, the tendency to "follow the crowd" is deeply ingrained in our genes.
Therefore, in order to advance our personal development in society, gain a sense of belonging, and gain the appreciation and acceptance of those around us, we often choose to "follow the crowd."
Positive conformity is conducive to an individual's understanding of the overall situation and the big picture. It ensures that group members have a unified understanding and actions, enhancing the group's cohesion and fighting power. It is conducive to an individual gaining a sense of security and self-confidence. It also allows individuals to learn from the experiences of others, broaden horizons, modify one's way of thinking, and reduce unnecessary misunderstandings and worries.
Passive conformity can impede personal development, including the weakening of self-awareness, the restriction of independent thinking, the suppression of openness, competition, pioneering, and enterprising behaviors, the hindering of the cultivation of independence, the stifling of the development of individuality, and the killing of the spirit of innovation and creativity.
How can individuals be themselves in a professional setting?
Gorky said, "A person should set a benchmark in the depths of their soul, so that the distinctive things in their personality gather around them, showing their distinctive characteristics."
Lin Yutang said, "Have the courage to be true to yourself, stand alone, and don't try to be someone else."
An increasing number of individuals are beginning to appreciate their authentic selves, yet they are concerned that they may not align with the prevailing norms.
As social animals, individuals are born into a society where they are cared for by their families and parents, and where they are educated and influenced by the social and cultural environment. Society has a determining and influencing effect on the individual, and the individual can also react to society in an active manner.
All psychological and behavioral issues among individuals can be attributed to societal influences, and all social issues are related to people's social psychology and social behavior.
After reaching puberty, individuals tend to prioritize the growth and development of their psychological self, becoming increasingly focused on understanding and aligning their personal identity.
During this period, individuals often experience internal conflict and contradiction regarding the balance between their social and psychological selves. They may find themselves oscillating between two opposing forces: the desire to conform and the need to maintain their individuality.
Please advise.
I found the response from platform author Wang Xiaonv particularly insightful. When alone, individuals are at their most authentic. Conversely, when in the presence of others, they tend to adopt a role. When alone, individuals are more than the roles they play; when in the presence of others, their roles are more prominent than their individual selves.
In other words, when we are alone, we tend to prioritize the needs of our "psychological self." However, when we are in society, we have to take on the social responsibilities of different social roles – wife, mother, daughter, teacher, doctor, etc.
This approach allows us to unify our social and psychological selves, facilitating positive interpersonal relationships while maintaining our authentic identities.
Given the influence of the Jonah complex, I am hesitant to pursue greatness.
The term "Jonah complex" is a psychological concept first introduced by the renowned American psychologist Maslow. In essence, the Jonah complex represents an individual's apprehension about the prospect of personal growth and maturity.
This phenomenon has its roots in a hypothesis put forth by psychodynamic theory, which posits that individuals are not only apprehensive about failure but also about success. It denotes a psychological state of self-evasion and withdrawal in the face of opportunities. This emotional state can impede one's ability to pursue and excel in tasks they are adept at, and even to recognize their potential.
While there may be a certain rationality to its existence, from the perspective of self-realization, it is a psychological factor that hinders self-realization.
As Maslow stated in his book, "Searching for the Inner Self," avoiding one's own talents will ultimately result in the loss of potential opportunities.
It is essential to have a clear understanding of our inner condition and to acknowledge the presence of the "Jonah complex." When confronted with responsibility and pressure, it is crucial to overcome fear and anxiety, muster courage, reinforce confidence, and believe in our ability to become the person we aspire to be.
When we enhance our confidence, gain a more accurate understanding of ourselves, integrate our strengths, and accomplish our objectives, we will undoubtedly move closer to becoming the person we aspire to be.
Is this for mutual encouragement?
Comments
I can totally relate to the frustration and isolation you feel when trying to open up. It's disheartening when the responses you get don't offer the support or understanding you're looking for. It's important to remember that your feelings are valid, and it's okay to seek a deeper connection with others who can empathize with what you're going through.
Finding likeminded individuals or a community that understands and respects your journey can be incredibly healing. You don't have to change who you are to fit in; instead, find people who appreciate you for being true to yourself. Your desire to understand and heal from your subconscious is a powerful step towards personal growth and should be encouraged.
It sounds like you're on a quest for selfvalidation and happiness. Remember, you do not need external approval to live authentically. The pursuit of your own path is a brave choice, and while it may not align with societal norms, it is your life and you have every right to shape it according to your values and aspirations.
The fact that you've studied psychoanalysis shows you're committed to understanding yourself better. Keep exploring those depths and use this knowledge as a tool for liberation. Society's rules are not set in stone, and they can evolve. By staying true to your core, you might inspire others to also look inward and challenge the status quo.
It's understandable to want recognition for your efforts and choices. While it may not come from everyone, there will be those who see the value in your authenticity. Focus on the quality of connections rather than quantity, and cherish the ones who truly understand and support you.