Lately I have been noticing lies, and not just any lies but lies people tell themselves about themselves. For example I tell myself that I'm quiet and I like to try and portray that self to people. The thing is I always comment in classes, I often find myself the talkative one in awkward interactions, and especially among my family I find myself dominating the conversation. And yet on stupid papers where you are supposed to write three words that describe you I often write "reserved."
I know some other people that tell themselves they aren't smart enough when they probably just don't want to deal with that knowledge. Or others who describe themselves as outgoing, when they hardly talk to anyone. And yet in all of these instances, myself included, the people seem to believe these things about themselves, at least sometimes.
It would almost make more sense if the lie I told myself was actually helpful (like telling myself I am stronger or braver so that you can "fake it 'till you make it") but I know the lie I tell myself can sometimes be detrimental. Not that being quiet is a bad thing, but forcing myself to be quiet in a situation when I don't need to be and I don't actually want to be, can be.
And certainly telling yourself that you are awkward, or not smart enough or that you always need help doesn't seem like a helpful sort of lie.
Where do these lies come from and why do we persist in telling them? To others and most of all ourselves?
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