Is Your Discomfort Cognitive Dissonance?

Ever heard of cognitive dissonance?

At its core, cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or tension we experience when we hold two or more conflicting beliefs, values, or ideas. Discomfort happens when we encounter information or evidence that challenges our beliefs or when we engage in behavior that contradicts our values.

For example, you may have a job in natural resources that you love. You dedicate yourself to making a difference on the land. For years, you may have advised customers in a certain practice. During a recent training, you learn that advice is outdated or no longer technically sound. Your brain is feeling uncomfortable from the conflicting beliefs.

Not everyone experiences cognitive dissonance in the same way, or responds to it in the same way. Some people are more comfortable holding conflicting beliefs or values, while others may feel a greater sense of discomfort. Our individual personalities, upbringing, and life experiences can shape how we navigate these conflicts.

Why does cognitive dissonance matter? It is a natural part of the human experience. We all encounter conflicting information and ideas throughout our lives, and learning how to navigate these conflicts can help us grow and develop as individuals.

Cognitive dissonance also has broader implications for how we interact with the world. When we encounter information that challenges our beliefs or values, it’s easy to dismiss it or ignore it altogether. If we want to live in a world that is just, fair, and sustainable, we need to confront these conflicts head-on and work towards solutions that are in line with our values.

So, what do we do when we experience cognitive dissonance? There are a few different strategies you can practice.

1. Identify Your Values: Identifying what’s important to you will help you decide how to proceed. In the example above, you value sound technical advice more than being right. Therefore, you can let go of an old belief and embrace a new one with the new knowledge you’ve gained.
2. Admit Your Failings: Part of the discomfort of cognitive dissonance is facing the reality that you might be wrong. Accepting your failings, learning from your mistakes, and moving on is an important skill to help overcome cognitive dissonance.
3. Ask for Help: Talk with a mentor or counselor, ask a friend for help, or visit with a family member. By asking for help, you can work through your thoughts with someone else’s insights to help you process the information more objectively.
4. Take Action: Once you’ve decided how to proceed in alignment with your values, take action. Taking action and implementing your decision helps cement the belief and gives you greater peace of mind.

In conclusion, cognitive dissonance is a natural experience that we all face in our lives. By understanding how we respond to these conflicts and developing strategies for resolving them, we can live more authentically and in alignment with our values. When feeling conflicted, reflect on why and then consider what steps you can take to reconcile the conflict.