Third Eye Blind
Who is helping you see your blindspots?
What we don't know hurts us.
Humans will go to great lengths to avoid looking in the mirror. The truth can be hard to stomach, but we can only reach our full potential when we dare to see ourselves clearly. This process occurs through relationships. We need other people to refract the parts of us we can’t, don't, and won’t see.
Clients hire me to help them become the best versions of themselves. As a psychologist, an important aspect of my job is telling people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. My aim is not to win a popularity contest. I'm afforded a unique position to speak uncomfortable truths. I share things that other peoples in my clients' lives are unwilling or unable to say, given the nature of their roles and relationships. They don’t always like what I say but have come to trust that my candor comes from a place of genuine care. Insight from an outside perspective helps interrupt cycles where people are unwittingly getting in their own way.
We will never find out the truth about who we are on our own. We have to seek it out intentionally. Identify people you trust and solicit their feedback. As you listen to what they share, maintain an open mind. If you find yourself having a defensive reaction to what you hear, step back. Ask, "What are the implications for my life if this information is true?" People's feedback will always be filtered through their own perceptions. Even if you disagree, don't reflexively bat away what someone is saying to you simply because you don't like the sound of it.
"Average players want to left alone, good players want to be coached, and great players want to be told the truth." -Nick Saban
When it comes to self-awareness, you have a choice. Naievte may be comfortable in the short run, but ignorance won't lead to long-term bliss. You can surround yourself with cheerleaders, but positive pep talks alone won't help you reach the next level. If you're serious about self-improvement, pursue sources of unvarnished truth.
Who is helping you see your blindspots?
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