Homeward bound after a couple of weeks road tripping through remote South Australia, I was reminded that first impressions are problematic.
First impressions are an anchor against which subsequent information is compared. Thanks to confirmation bias, we typically seek information that affirms rather than contradicts our initial view.
But on this trip last year I revisited some campgrounds that I would have preferred to have skipped. And I am so glad I took a second look.
- Because my first impression had been subject to my mood, the weather, and the campers around me. It was negative.
- My second impression was likewise subject to my mood, the weather, and the campers around me. This time, it was positive.
Itโs easy to form a view and get on with life. Time is short and thereโs only so many times we can revisit a place or a subject.
There are a few lessons here:
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Try to make a good first impression when meeting someone. Turning up on time, being prepared and positive are easy things to do.
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Try to forgive someone who hasnโt made a good first impression. What role is context playing? Did you meet them when you were stressed out? What was the context and how may this have affected your view of them?
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If you find only confirmatory proof of your first impression, you are probably not trying hard enough. Everything and everyone has good points and bad, so look a little harder.
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