Repetition is a powerful tool in our hands. It can be a powerful tool in others’ hands too. The sooner we realize this, the better we can use this tool to achieve our goals.
These days, we often see this tool used negatively to build narratives that may be untrue. However far-fetched a story might seem if one listens to it multiple times, one starts believing it.
Are you wondering why I am navigating this area of negative narratives? I have been observing several cases lately, where some people’s prejudices make them start looking at incidents selectively. Consequently, they tend to reinforce their prejudices with evidence. With this evidence, they build narratives, without realising their underlying bias.
One environment where this is very prevalent is the workplace. Certain marginalised employees are subjected to repeated stereotypic narratives. It starts as a small trait that they have to correct, but it gradually turns into a self-image that grows bigger and bigger and eventually, they start believing these stories as the truth.
If you’re a leader of a team, be aware of such narratives and make an effort to break them.
When a bird has started believing that it can’t fly, teach it to fly rather than cutting its wings to create evidence.
On the other hand, such situations can be countered by individuals with the same tool of repetition.
If you’re being discriminated against, repeat to yourself every single day that you’re awesome and you can learn to do anything that you set your mind to.
Do not accept the narratives that your environment might be forcing you to believe.
Remember,
I’m the master of my fate, I’m the captain of my soul.
-William Ernest Henley (Invictus)
(Photo by Céline Haeberly on Unsplash)