Stereotyping is something everyone has done at one point or another. Sometimes we know we are doing it; other times, we fail to recognize our stereotypical thinking. Fighting back against stereotyping is crucial as you grow as a person. No one wants to be judged. Here are three things to try if you find yourself thinking in stereotypical terms.
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Let People In
When we surround ourselves with a wide array of individuals from various backgrounds, we can learn so much. Simply befriending someone different from yourself can open up your outlook, teach you about other cultures and backgrounds, and ultimately help you find similarities among diverse people that you may have never noticed before.
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Educate Yourself
Education is a powerful tool to broaden your outlook and understanding. Many times we fear what we do not fully understand. Just because someone is different from you does not mean that they are wrong. Stereotypes tend to be passed down from generation to generation and circulate through geographical areas. You may have been saturated in stereotypes from a very young age. Use education as your tool to break free from that thinking. You can then help educate others around you, creating a world of difference for those being stereotyped.
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Hold Yourself Accountable
Be mindful of your thoughts. When we practice mindfulness, we stay in the moment with our thoughts and actions. If you notice your thoughts slipping towards stereotyping people, places, or things, hold yourself accountable. Talk yourself through the stereotype, what it is about, and what triggered those thoughts. You may begin to notice patterns that you have never noticed before. Holding yourself accountable can be challenging and, at times, stressful. Remember that change does not happen overnight; your decision to broaden and better your thoughts and behaviors is valuable for you and society.
Many people think in terms of stereotypes without even noticing. We have all been brought up and surrounded by stereotypes our whole lives. Those suffering from mental health challenges, addiction, and trauma face stereotypes and stigma every single day. If you find yourself thinking in this manner, try to educate yourself and then help to educate others around you. Here at The Guest House, we are a group of professionals with experience helping a wide array of individuals, all facing unique challenges. Call us today to learn more about our treatment options and how we can support you in your goals at (855) 483-7800.