Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Other people show us who we are, and we’re not aware of it. When we’re with others, we slip into these unconscious roles, and if we’re not careful we can fall into the belief that our roles bear some value in who we are. We’re doing some roleplay right now. I’m the writer, and you’re the reader. Perhaps you’re thinking that I’m the teacher and you’re the student, especially if you learn something from this blog. But that doesn’t mean that one is greater than the other. It just means we’ve unconsciously slipped into these temporary roles that seem to have hierarchy.
Think about all the roles you’ll play today. At the supermarket, you’ll be a customer, and the person checking your groceries will be the store clerk. Who is “more important?” After all, isn’t the customer king? At work, you’ll be playing employee, and your boss will be playing employer. Which role is inferior? If you slip into employee role, then you might be tempted to think you’re inferior, but only in the game.
Do you believe what other people are showing you about the roles you play with them? Some will look up to you and some down. Is that so-called intimidating colleague making you feel inferior, or are you allowing them to project their submissive view of you into your psyche? Roleplaying is absolutely necessary in a structured society, and you do need to play the game. But don’t let the roleplaying game color the perception of your truth. A role is a role, but your value is never determined by it. Don’t allow others to show you who you are. Discover that for yourself. In the meantime, just play your part with a wink and especially with a smile.