I've always been fascinated by psychology since it has such a profound impact on our lives and, to a significant extent, we get to choose what our psychology is. Jordan Peterson believes that because the Bible was the first book published and thus had such a big influence on everything else, it has molded the way we view the world for the last 2000 years. The theory is that because it provided specific standards and truths, those values shaped how we view the world, therefore it became THE Truth rather than just a truth. He was referring to the lens through which we observe society and the world.

Whether you believe the Bible is the filter today or was the filter in the past, it is true that we all create a filter through which to perceive the world. This filter is formed as a result of what is fed into our psyche. If we have a horrible childhood, it will influence how we view the world. If we were exposed to racist, sexist, or corrupt material as children, we would view the world through that lens, and this will serve as our filter. The best aspect, though, is that you can modify your filter.

This is why it is critical to change your circle. If you choose to surround yourself with people who have a different perspective or filter on the world, you might begin to modify your perspective and hence your filter. This is often done instinctively, but it can also be done actively if desired. Begin to consider why you see the world the way you do. If you have strong negative feelings about something, consider whether those feelings are accurate and how they affect your life.

This is one of the reasons counseling is so effective. It allows you to reevaluate and challenge how you perceive or view the world. This is why reading and participating in groups to help you become the person you want to be are so vital. We are all given information or perspectives that are not always correct, and if we do not investigate why we feel and think the way we do, we will never change because the filter through which we view the world is insufficiently accurate for our requirements. It is critical to examine how we see the world and why we see it that way.

The only catch is that in order to actually take a step back and look, you must be willing to let go of everything you believe to be true. You cannot be biased if you choose to look at these things. Recognize that long-held beliefs may be incorrect and must be revised. However, you can examine things critically and decide that they are valid and should be retained. This is usually best done with a counselor because genuinely analyzing deeply held beliefs is quite difficult to become objective about.

I would advise everyone to reconsider the filter they use to perceive the world and see whether it needs to be adjusted. This is one of the ways we determine our own ideology and path.

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Dr. Matt Chalmers

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Before taking any action based on this information you should first consult with your physician or health care provider. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions regarding a medical condition, your health, or wellness.