Cynicism has its merits, but a permanent ‘glass half empty’ outlook can be self-fulfilling.
I had a client who came in looking for help getting ahead in her business. But her attitude about everything we discussed was so cynical, I could see right away it was blocking her way forward. The question was… could she?
Cynicism starts early
Cynicism isn’t something we’re born with. Many of us develop a smartass attitude in our teens. That’s when we start to get whiffs of independence. We want to rebel against our parents, school authorities, adults in general. We want to express ourselves as independent people. We enjoy making irreverent, funny remarks and being rebellious. We revel in sarcasm. It’s an attitude that’s widely supported across our culture, from TV to movies to pop music.
When cynicism gets in our way
Cynicism can be helpful in that it makes us question what we’re told. We don’t take anything for granted. We don’t put blind trust in just anyone. But if we let cynicism become a mindset that shapes our world view, it can hold us back. Taken to the extreme, the veneer of trying to looking good, of showing how smart and humorous we are, hides the unexpected from us. If something wonderful comes up, we don’t see it, because we’re always looking for the down side.
When we observe our surroundings through a negative filter, we miss fresh opportunities. Or if we do see the opportunities, we don’t act on them, because, consciously or unconsciously, we feel we can’t make any real change in our lives. We can’t move forward. We become resigned to staying where we are. And so we miss out on the joys in life.
Overcoming cynicism
I worked with my cynical client to help her see that much of her negativity prevented her from recognizing what a free and prosperous life she really had. Once she became conscious of this, her outlook began to shift.
She learned to push aside the cynicism that was holding her back, and be more open to suggestions. She became more present in the moment, conscious of what was going on. She started to realize her authentic self, and appreciate how great her life really is. Halfway through our coaching relationship, dream opportunities started coming her way.
What about you?
If you feel that your own cynicism is getting in your way, and would like to push aside what’s holding you back, I can help you with that. We can take a look at what’s keeping you in one place, and how to go beyond it. I can support you in getting to your authentic self. It will make a big difference to your career, your relationships, your next steps.