Borrowed Perceptions

 

I had a moment this week that stopped me in my tracks. It was a powerful lesson in how easily our perceptions can be shaped, even when we’re convinced we’re immune.

It started with two different perspectives on the same social media influencer. The first portrayal was glowing: she was authentic, not trying to sell anything, and that genuineness was why people loved her. My initial impression was set. She was “good.”

Then, months later, a second perspective emerged. This one questioned why someone of immense wealth would use a platform largely populated by people striving to make ends meet. Instead of using her resources for profound good, she was flaunting a lifestyle unattainable to most of her audience. The argument hit home. Was this display of wealth, in this context, a little cruel? Suddenly, my view of her was tangled in doubt.

I realized I had been passively led, twice. First, I was influenced to see her as purely virtuous. Then, I was influenced to see her as deeply problematic. My sister nailed it when she said, “Do you see how easy it is to be influenced?” I had to admit, I did.

This experience was a wake-up call. It highlighted the danger of letting a single narrative, no matter how compelling, cement our long-term perceptions of someone. We consume curated content and persuasive opinions, often mistaking them for our own conclusive judgments.

So, what i learnt from this is that we are human and no matter the age, ethnicity or gender, we are easily influenced and its even worse if we are not aware its happening.

The goal isn’t to build a wall against all external information, but to become conscious filters. We must pause and ask ourselves: “Is this my conclusion, or did I borrow it from someone else?” Actively seek diverse viewpoints. Sit with the discomfort of not having a firm opinion immediately.

Let’s commit to being more mindful consumers of content. Let’s question the lens through which we are being shown a person or situation. Our perceptions are valuable; we must guard them against being swayed by the strongest voice in the room, and instead, anchor them in our own critical thought