These past few weeks I have been reflecting on authentic interactions.
- We have all had those interactions with people where we are left thinking “They get me!” Those ones where you flow together towards an unknown destination, safe in the knowledge that there are no ill intentions or under-hand dealings, and safe in the knowledge that wherever the interaction goes, you are both willing to be taken there. Such interactions fill you up with energy.
- We have also all had interactions with people which we would rather not have. You know that something is off. You can plainly see the inconsistencies in the story, the huge narrative gaps, and you can tell that there is a “sale” around the corner. Such interactions drain you of your energy.
My reflections have been on why we (read: “I”) engage in type 2 interactions (AKA: low-energy BS interactions) when I know better.
- Am I only doing it because I want to close the business deal?
- Am I only doing it because I want to be thought of as “nice” and “charming”?
- Am I only doing it because I want their
fake friendship?
- Am I only doing it… because… I don’t know… I was just going with the flow?
What is the unaddressed need inside of me that allows me to go against my better judgement and participate in a low-energy BS interaction? That is what I need to earn my freedom from.
Then all of my interactions can be authentic, type 1, arms-length interactions. Two independent interested parties who are acting in their own self-interest and whose self-interests are strongly correlated.
You, reading this. How many low-energy BS interactions have you had today? WHY did you have them?