Dark Psychology

Summary

In today’s world, our perception fundamentally shapes our reality. This explains why two people can have entirely different interpretations of the same event. The meaning we assign to events stems from our beliefs and emotions. So, can altering our perception actually change our world? If so, how can this be achieved? And if it's possible, how can we mold our reality to create a better one?

What we see defines what we believe, and what we believe dictates what we consider true. Our sense of truth then becomes our reality. Thus, our perception molds our reality. Although we share the same world, we each focus on our own perceived truths. Even though everyone has eyes, each person views the world in a unique way. It’s easy to find what we’re looking for, but harder to notice what we’re not searching for. For example, one person might see a glass as half-full while another sees it as half-empty.

“A pessimist sees the trouble in every opportunity; an optimist sees the chance in every trouble.”

Perception Is Relative

There are numerous examples of how perception influences our reality. When we buy a new white car, we suddenly notice that color and model everywhere. If we like or dislike a song, it seems to play frequently. When someone points out a particular mannerism or nervous tic in another person, it seems to become more noticeable afterward.