Whole-Person Wellness Blog: Breaking bias and building connections

Connection is a human need. Since the beginning of time, we have needed others to survive and thrive. With technology and the growing use of artificial intelligence, we disconnect and isolate now more than ever. There are fewer opportunities to look up and be present with the world around us.

How do we become more present? More open? More curious? First, we can challenge our implicit bias – and we all have it. Bias is formed by how we were raised, who we see on TV and in the movies, and from our daily observations and exposure.

When we see someone or something and form an unconscious thought that may be harmful, challenge it. This is not an easy process and can bring up various emotions, particularly shame and guilt. It is a great opportunity to use the Sanctuary S.E.L.F tool: Does keeping this thought promote safety for myself and the other person? What emotions do I experience when I self-reflect? What do I have to lose if I challenge this belief? What does the future look like for me and the others involved?

Getting to the root of our thoughts and lived experiences helps us grow, evolve, and learn from ourselves and one another. Shifting from judgment to curiosity is where learning happens.

I grew up in a Byzantine Catholic household that was very strict and fear-based. During a conversation one day, I found myself forming a negative judgment about someone who mentioned they were of the same faith. It immediately brought up distressing memories, anger, and a plethora of other emotions. I began to widen my perspective and reminded myself that just because this particular person is of the same faith, she has her own background and her own lived experiences. My traumatic experiences were getting in the way of getting to know her for who she was. Sometimes digging below the surface is painful, challenging, and frustrating. I still struggle today, but continually reframing my thoughts and investigating the source has been incredibly helpful in my growth and social learning.

The more I get to know myself, the more I realize the immense knowledge I’ve gained from others’ backgrounds, lived experiences, similarities, and – most importantly – differences. Take a moment to think of something you learned from someone else. Did you have to challenge your beliefs? Did it open your eyes to something you were unaware of?

Social learning is a lifelong process. We shift, change, develop different interests, and have various lived experiences, which allows us to connect and deepen beyond just ourselves. There is no limit to our potential, individually and collectively.

Спасибо,