ATTENTION: Do we really need it or simply want it?
Have you ever…..
- Wanted to be in limelight?
- Wished that people noticed you?
- Craved to join the coolest group of class?
- Longed for responsiveness from your parents over your sibling?
It is ingrained in human nature to desire validation from those around us. It adds to the sense of self-worth and helps build a concept of ourselves.
Attention has become more of need than a want ,although it also remains true that seeking external endorsement takes away independence in thinking and makes you vulnerable to self-doubt.
GROWING MOUNTAIN OF NEGATIVE ATTENTION
In adolescence you feel you need to expand your network and grown in the social sphere in order to be known and feel accepted.
You could smoke, drink ,do drugs , be part of gangs and cults, and do a lot of things out of the ordinary that may be contested or chastited. Hence, in this fashion you work towards finding ways to be personally addressed by an exasperated friend or upset teacher or angry parents, all this just to make sure that at least you aren’t forgotten!
PAY ATTENTION TO THE ATTENTION YOU SEEK!
- Be kind there is no substitute to comparison
- Give people time to react what you’ve said
- Encourage others, they will always turn to you
- Don’t try to someone you are really not
Wiser choices bring fruitful outcomes like superior friendships, strong trust from parents ,mentors. This can change the whole view you have of yourself.