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Why Is It Easier To Solve Other People’s Problems Than Our Own?
Emotions and beliefs prevent us from applying our knowledge and wisdom
“We often seem better at giving other people advice than solving our own problems.” (Donald Robertson, fastcompany.com)
Do doctors follow the healthiest lifestyles? Are psychotherapists happier than others? Do family and marriage counsellors have happy families and lead happy marriages?
Professional competence is one thing; personal life is quite another.
A doctor in my neighbourhood is a chain smoker. I wondered why he could not follow the advice he might be giving others about the dangers of smoking.
I find it easier to proffer advice to others than practise it myself. Does that make me a hypocrite?
Humans are prisoners of emotions while dealing with their own problems. Negative emotions like fear, anger, and anxiety cripple our ability to think objectively.
We develop belief systems based on our family’s values and childhood experiences. We construct an inner story about who we are and what we are capable of. This inner profile becomes our self-perceived identity.
