We are experts at lying. Not a day goes by where we don’t lie.
TRUTH #1 — We lie at least once or twice a day.
Studies prove that honesty is not the best policy. Lying has become a simple life condition. We have endless motivations for lying— to save face, avoid hurting people, impress others, social lubricant, or prevent conflict.
Even a white lie is the norm.
But why do we lie?
For acceptance and survival.
TRUTH #2 — If a person feels safe, lying is no longer necessary.
How do we stop ourselves from lying?
Ramani Durvasula, a licensed psychologist, says, “Trust is the primary connective tissue of a relationship. More than anything, it fosters a sense of safety. Without Trust, a relationship cannot grow in a healthy manner.”
People need to feel safe in their environment to stop lying. What does it mean to feel safe? A safe space is free of anger, judgment, biases, or trouble.
LIE #1 — Our brain is calm when we lie.
We think lying will keep the peace in our relationships. In neuroscience, this is not the case. Our brains work double-time to keep up with our lies.
So, to keep the peace within yourselves, tell the truth. Your brain will thank you.
I know I lied to you at the beginning of this essay, which defeats this essay’s very idea. What I’m showing you is how easy it is to lie to prove a point.
The question is— is the lie worth it?
Is it ok to lie? Or are we better of practicing radical honesty with people?
