This is a topic that I would love to reflect upon on my blog’s sixth anniversary(this realization hit me while I was contemplating what to write for today’s blog post). Usually, I do prefer to give opinions about movies or books or web series, or anything nice but after experiencing a few things in the last few months, I did feel that maybe it is high time that I speak about this because sometimes reality is way outrageous (I actually wanted to use a very strong word but I am trying to contain my emotions and be a super rational human while I am writing this). So, these are things that I want to be normal in the near future.
- Respect and manners are among the very first things that I want people to normalize irrespective of age, experience, nationality, gender , race and other such stereotypes which we label on each other. It should be simple as if I respect you as a fellow human being, then you should do the same. No one has the right to tear someone each other down and if you do for some reason, at least have the basic courtesy to apologize the next day. As someone has aptly said, how you treat others speaks volumes about your character.
- This might be connected to the very first point but it is high time that we focus more on bettering ourselves rather than being envious of other’s good qualities. I am guilty of this as well a lot of times but I do try to work on my shortcomings and try to reason how I can be a better person. I experienced this behavior a lot in my workplace and I did try to ignore it but somewhere it just became unbearable to me. Why can’t we accept a simple fact that every person has some qualities that makes him or her stand apart and instead of celebrating it or embrace it in ourselves? But what do we do ? We tend to destroy that person by playing stupid mind games and resorting to useless manipulation tactics.
- Its high time to be less judgemental about others. What a person might be going through might not be shared with you always. And the book which might seem boring to read just by its cover might be the most interesting one to read . I am guilty of this one as well a lot of times but I am trying to fix that as well.
- Can we normalize the fact that being sentimental is actually a good thing ? I know we are always told that we are not supposed to show our emotions but can we accept the fact that emotions is what makes us human whether it be in our personal relationships or in our professional relationships. Emotional regulation is a great thing and one should possess it but its okay to let out your emotions once in a while.
- Can we be each other’s cheerleaders and appreciate the efforts someone puts in his or her work? I really don’t understand why can’t people give a simple compliment if someone has done a good job. A compliment always goes a long way in fostering relationships and relationships do matter in the long run. That improves confidence and reiterates the fact that what you are doing is the right thing.
- Can we create an environment which actually makes it safe for people to open up about what they feel and help them address their grievances if they have any? A lot of workplaces have suggestion boxes but they are just for namesake. And even if you give feedback, they are not implemented in spirit.
- Can we normalize the concept of boundaries in all aspects? It is very very tiring and rude if people keep up popping in your lives without your consent and try to poke their nose in someone’s business. I really feel like shouting at such people because such people just show up and give you anxiety like nothing. If someone is a very private person, learn to respect their privacy.
- Can we normalize the fact that some people are more comfortable on text messages rather than giving them a phone call? Phone calls drain them a lot and are comfortable only when they are close to people. Else they prefer text messages always. And if you want to give a call, please keep it short.
- Can we de-stigmatize mental health issues? If you feel its a joke and is a thing which need not be taken seriously,then I am sorry to burst your bubble. I would be happy if we find the right people to talk to because it is very difficult to talk about such things.
- Also, can we normalize genuine conversations over small talk? In my case at least I would be prefer deep conversations rather than shallow conversations. But please do not try to intrude into my life by asking uncomfortable questions and if I do not answer them please respect my silence on the same rather than assuming things.
These are a few things I feel should be normalized. Is there anything which you feel is a taboo or is something which is a stigma or is a topic which needs to be discussed but is pushed under the mat? Do let me know in the comments section. Would love to hear your thoughts on the same. Till then, lots of love and take care.
The Expression Hub 