Quick Fact Check

Pick out any group within the human community and think of the stereotypical narratives that continue to do the rounds to this date. Whether it’s cultural, ethnic, gender, or any other group, these stereotypes often persist and influence our behaviour towards the group, even without any prior experience. And I so want to be proven wrong on this, you know! Yes, exceptions exist. But, by and large, the stronger influence of these narratives is the observed reality.

Upgrading Narratives

Upgrading narratives requires each one of us to be mindful enough to understand that the behaviour we receive is an individual choice. Yes, this behavior can be influenced and affected by larger groups, sub-groups and societal norms, but fundamentally, it is the individual’s decision.

Embracing Individuality

Aspiring for individual social identity also calls for acknowledging individuality in others. And, acknowledging individuality implies acknowledging independent freedom of lifestyle choices, fundamental and legal rights, as well as accepting responsibility for your own behaviour without attributing all accountability to social conditioning and that other person in your life.

Quick Reality Check

All this rant to say: Let’s call out difficult behaviour in individuals without attributing the blame to entire groups and give people a chance to upskill. And, let’s also appreciate people who show up as compassionate, sensible human beings instead of negating individual efforts as “fate”, or worse, “privilege”.

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