Member-only story
How to never bullshit yourself again
“You can fool yourself, you know. You’d think it’s impossible, but it turns out it’s the easiest thing of all.” — Jodi Picoult
Most of us growing up were warned against lying, and being caught in a lie was one of the most embarrassing things you could ever endure. It meant you weren’t smart enough to outwit others, or at least not for long. You felt stupid and you could be ridiculed or even punished for it.
But if there was one person in the world who may never catch on to your lies, it’s you. Moreover, there’s one person who might actually be happy that you lied — it’s you.
We tell ourselves all sorts of stuff to make ourselves feel better, but don’t blame yourself. We are a species that is hardwired to escape pain. It’s only natural.
“Lying to ourselves is more deeply ingrained than lying to others.” — Fyodor Dostoevsky
However, when that lie is corrupting your life and you can’t do anything about it because you’re convinced that the lie is actually the truth/good/useful, obviously that’s a problem. You’re never going to be the best version of yourself, if you maintain certain thoughts.