The burden of manipulation and its amazing saturation

Manipulation abounds from the ever common “share and like” if you … so common on Facebook to the more subtle usage in ads and promotions. Manipulation is so common place that we often overlook it and perhaps seek to ignore it. But even in these situations its influence continues to direct our thoughts and even to a variety of degrees our actions.

I expect that each of us could point to someone in our lives that has become a master manipulator, the one who can get just about anyone to do just about anything. They are willing to use guilt, expectation or any other hook they can twist to accomplish their ends. These individuals generally are liked but also avoided, they also often cause strife. But what is the long term goal? It is true they get stuff done but to what end?

But back to my original point the common and abundant use of manipulation. As we look around lives we see this force everywhere so what should we do about it? Should we learn to ignore it and hope we are not acting in ignorance but knowing that it happens continually. Should we just accept that it is part of our lives and do our best to run the gauntlet daily? What other options do we have?

Manipulation is a fact in our lives and yes it will be unavoidable unless we move to a place of no or minimal people and then avoid most every aspect of social media. So if we are not able or willing to do that we are left with dealing with others attempting to force us to accomplish their agendas.

In my opinion the best way to handle manipulation is first learn to recognize it. Second make a conscious choice as to what you want to do. Third only change your mind if it agrees with what you believe is best. Each step has its own difficulties and rewards. The first step is the most vital because without it the other steps are not applicable. Learn the difference between someone telling you what to do instead of honestly asking you to consider doing what they believe is a good idea.

Everybody has an opinion and even when you agree with their opinion it does not necessary follow that you agree with the solution or the action they are advocating. Being an individual also implies that you take the time to make decision based on what you believe and actions that you expect to accomplish the goals you believe in.

Blessings