Do you ever dislike something that everyone else seems to love? Something that is praised and celebrated, but just doesn't sit well with you? For me, that thing is small talk.
The Discomfort of Small Talk
Small talk is the act of engaging in light conversation with someone you don't know very well, or about superficial topics that don't require much thought or emotion. It is often used as a way to break the ice, fill awkward silences, or pass the time. However, I find small talk to be uncomfortable, uninteresting, and even pointless.
First of all, small talk feels forced and insincere to me. I don't enjoy pretending to care about someone's weekend plans or the weather, when I would much rather discuss deeper topics that could lead to more meaningful connections. Additionally, small talk can be anxiety-inducing, as it often involves navigating social cues and norms that can be confusing and exhausting.
Perhaps most frustratingly, small talk rarely leads to anything productive or memorable. It is forgettable by design, meant to be quickly discarded and replaced by the next trivial topic. As someone who values introspection, learning, and growth, I can't help but feel frustrated by the lack of substance and potential for growth in small talk.
The Pressure to Perform
Another common practice that I dislike is the idea of \"performing\" for others. This can take many forms, such as dressing up for a job interview, putting on a fake smile for a customer service interaction, or trying to impress someone on a first date. While I understand the benefits of making a good impression, the pressure to constantly present oneself as flawless and desirable can be exhausting and damaging.
When we are constantly performing for others, we lose sight of our authentic selves and values. We become more concerned with fitting in and being liked than with being true to ourselves and pursuing our own goals and dreams. Additionally, the pressure to perform often leads to anxiety, self-doubt, and even burnout.
I believe that we should be able to present ourselves honestly and without fear of judgement or rejection. We should be allowed to make mistakes, be vulnerable, and embrace our imperfections without feeling like we've failed to meet a certain standard. Only then can we truly connect with others and build genuine relationships based on mutual understanding and respect.
The Dangers of Comparison
Lastly, one of the things that I dislike most about modern society is our tendency to compare ourselves to others. With the rise of social media and the constant bombardment of images and messages from others, it can be all too easy to feel inadequate and unworthy.
Comparing ourselves to others often leads to feelings of envy, resentment, and shame. We wonder why we don't have what they have, or why we aren't as successful, attractive, or happy. We forget that everyone's journey is different, and that we each have our own strengths and weaknesses to embrace and celebrate.
Furthermore, comparison often leads us to prioritize external validation over internal fulfillment. We become more focused on achieving certain milestones or fitting certain societal ideals, rather than pursuing what truly brings us joy and purpose. This can lead to a life that feels shallow, unfulfilling, and disconnected from our true selves.
Overall, I believe that it is important to question and challenge the practices and norms that we encounter in our daily lives. While some may bring us comfort and joy, others may be harmful or stifling. By embracing our own preferences and values, we can live a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and uniquely our own.