When I said this title to an old friend, I received the response quickly, "But I am 100% self-aware."
That was rather telling.
If we were truly aware of our limitations, flaws, and lack of actual control over our lives, perhaps many would be hiding in a bunker, clutching a bottle of ouzo and muttering about the meaninglessness of it all.
But thankfully, nature has gifted us with a force to keep us moving forward: self-delusion. It’s what allows us to march through life with confidence (sometimes misplaced), optimism (often misguided), and a firm belief that we’re in control (we’re not).
Even the prophet Jeremiah said our hearts were deceitful about everything and wondered, “Who can understand it?”
We simply can’t hold two conflicting beliefs, so when reality doesn’t align with our self-concept, we must maintain our self-esteem, avoid discomfort, and thus guard our sanity.
Full self-awareness—the constant, unfiltered recognition of one’s flaws, limitations, and negative thoughts—could lead to overwhelming psychological stress.
Studies suggest that individuals with depression often have a more accurate perception of reality, known as depressive realism. But glumly telling others that at least you have a clearer view of reality won’t win you friends or counteract your depression.
So what beliefs, true or not, keep us moving forward?
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