From an early age, we're encouraged to tell the truth.
The problem with telling the truth is sometimes it can get us into trouble, or can make us feel inadequate. Whereas a lie can be a shortcut to joy, safety, and a timely ego stroke.
So why do we lie?
We lie to:
- Escape being punished
- Avoid embarrassment
- Win admiration
- Obtain something that’s not otherwise available
- Protect another person
- Defend ourselves from threats
- Get out of a difficult situation
- Maintain privacy
- Exercise power over others
- Defend our core beliefs
Not all lies are bad; we accept little white lies. Lies that are made in order to safeguard children or create a surprise.
Then there's lies told purely to get elected to the highest office. Not so good.
But what if you think someone is lying, but it's actually just opinion?
This could be seen as challenging someone's beliefs and that's dangerous.
A powerful mantra to have when you think someone could be telling a 'belief lie' is, ‘True for you but not for me’.
This can be used internally with self-talk and externally (at the right time) when dealing with a potential or real conflict.
My list of ‘why we lie’ is certainly not complete. Why else do we lie?
I’d love to hear your ideas and your thoughts on today’s blog. Please leave a comment below.
Be Brilliant!
Michael
PS We now have over 700 members in my How to Be Brilliant Private Facebook group.
The discussion, ideas, and support from members is amazing. If you haven’t joined yet, we’d love to see you there. Just click here [https://www.facebook.com/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2Fhowtobebrilliant], answer 3 questions, and you’re in.
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