Recently, I have come across a research study that talks about the relationship between saving face and promoting a green lifestyle. When we post a photo of us eating like a vegetarian for the day, are we promoting a green lifestyle or are we wanting people to think we're a responsible, good person?
In this explosive era of social media, how much of the things we do and share is for our face?
In the study, the researcher asks participants to rate these questions:
"I care about praise and criticism from others."
"I care about others' attitudes toward me."
"I hate being taken lightly."
"I will be very upset if I am criticized in public."
Honestly, I would have said yes to all of the above, wouldn't you?
We all care about how others see use. Part of our perception of ourselves has got to be developed through the eyes of others - whether it's our parent, siblings, teacher, boss, partner, friend, even our enemy.
Will caring too much about others change our behaviour and make us unauthentic?
Will it make us nervous and timid?
Will it disturb our peace of mind and make us restless?
I say yes to all above too.
But it will also keep our behaviour in check, make us humble
because we know we are not perfect.
When I was younger, I used to think I could be so care-less of what others think of me. That thought alone made me feel so liberating.
Now I am older, I know that is wishful thinking.
Because we all care, one way or the other.
We just manage to change the questions:
How much should we care?
Who should we care about?
How can I stop caring too much?
What do you care about?
