Post 13

What role does the self-fulfilling prophecy play in realizing potential? I found myself wondering this during class tonight. It's my psychology degree coming out again. But, I remember lots of stuff on self-fulfilling prophecies. The theory is that once an idea is in your head, you pay attention to the stuff that supports the idea, and ignore the rest. In the end, you end up fulfilling the prophecy. So, what does this say about realizing your potential, or helping others realize their potential?

First, it tells me that having that optimistic, "glass is half full" disposition is kind of important. If I feel that I have a lot of potential, and that I can do something, and do it well, the setbacks won't bother me so much. But, if I'm really scared and lacking confidence, then I'll see those setbacks as proof that I suck and I should stop trying.

As far as working with others, however, I think it's even more important to be aware of the self-fulfilling prophecy. By suspending judgement, and seeing the best in others, and letting them know that I see the best in them, I can transfer some of that optimism to them, so they can then fulfill the prophecy that they're awesome.