A Question Has Been Thrown About Basic Skills You Thought Everyone Knew Until You Saw Someone Doing It Horribly And The Redditors' Replies Will Leave You In Awe
It is expected that you know certain basic skills, or you can call them survival skills.
There are so many basic skills available to learn in the world, and some skills even come naturally. As a human being, it’s expected that you know certain basic skills, or you can call them survival skills.
Most of these basic skills are taught to us while growing up by our parents or guardians, and in due time, we perform them without breaking a sweat. But you’ll be amazed at the number of people who don’t know how to do basic tasks as simple as mopping or even sweeping.
For some, they have had domestic staff cater to them all their lives, and they don’t know how to do a thing. For others, they simply struggle with these basic tasks, but then again, you have to keep trying.
You can imagine meeting some people and then discovering that they can’t cook the simplest food or even operate a washing machine. In most cases, you find out that these individuals have been well taken care of by employed staff, and their feet have never touched the ground.
The redditor today, named u/Gaelic_Gladiator_64, is asking the r/AskReddit community about a basic skill they grew up thinking everyone had until they saw others do it so poorly.
Here's the question
u/Gaelic_Gladiator_64The comments to this question are worth considering. How could some people not know how to do things this basic?
Well, let's take a look at the top comments from the Reddit community...
Being polite, having manners and learning
This can't be so hard to do or learn.
Marcella111001Read the instructions
madInTheBox
Cognitive Dissonance in Skill Perception
The reactions elicited by witnessing someone struggle with basic skills often stem from a phenomenon known as cognitive dissonance. This occurs when our beliefs about what is 'normal' clash with unexpected behaviors we observe. Research in psychology, particularly by Leon Festinger, shows that this dissonance can lead to discomfort, prompting individuals to either adjust their perceptions of others or rationalize their feelings.
This discomfort can manifest in judgmental attitudes or a desire to help, reflecting our innate social tendencies to support others while also maintaining a sense of superiority. Understanding this psychological dynamic can foster empathy and encourage more constructive responses when witnessing skill deficits in others.
Understanding Basic Skills as Social Constructs
Social psychologists at the University of Chicago note that the concept of 'basic skills' is often culturally constructed and varies significantly across different societies.
What one group views as essential knowledge may not be relevant in another context, highlighting the importance of cultural relativism in skill acquisition.
This discrepancy can lead to feelings of inadequacy or embarrassment when individuals find themselves lacking in skills expected by their peers.
Whatever you don't know, search the internet
SamuraiJack815
Explaining things by repeating what you said previously
GODDAMNUBERNICE
How can someone not know how to cook eggs... What!
McPoyal
When individuals encounter others struggling with basic tasks, it often triggers a reflection on their own skills and competencies. This self-evaluation can lead to feelings of superiority or insecurity, depending on how one perceives their abilities relative to others. As Dr. Dan Gilbert, a renowned happiness researcher, states, "We often compare ourselves to others to gauge our self-worth, which can significantly impact our emotional well-being." Recognizing this cycle can help individuals respond more thoughtfully when they see others struggling, moving beyond judgment to potentially supportive interactions. Dr. Gilbert emphasizes that "understanding our emotional responses can lead to more compassionate interactions with those around us."
In fact, research by Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, emphasizes that "how we perceive ourselves in relation to others can greatly influence our self-esteem." When individuals feel they lack certain 'basic skills', it can lead to a decline in confidence, which may result in avoidance behaviors or social anxiety. Dr. David advocates for creating an environment where "learning is seen as a journey, not a destination," which is crucial for personal growth and resilience.
Mopping and sweeping... I can't deal
ThatGuyWithThatFace_
I'm asking the same question as the second commenter
Handsome121duck
Laundry and emptying the dryer lint
babybaloneyfriend
Building Skills Through Empathy
To counteract judgmental instincts, experts suggest practicing empathy in these situations. One effective method is cognitive empathy, where individuals consciously try to understand the feelings and experiences of others. Research shows that fostering empathy can lead to more supportive behaviors and reduce aggressive or dismissive responses.
In practical terms, engaging in active listening when someone struggles can create a supportive environment that encourages skill development. This approach not only benefits the person in need but can also enhance the social fabric of communities by promoting understanding and cooperation.
The Role of Self-Compassion in Learning
Self-compassion is vital in addressing feelings of inadequacy when faced with new challenges. Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneer in self-compassion research, emphasizes that treating oneself with kindness can alleviate negative self-judgments.
Studies indicate that individuals who practice self-compassion are more resilient in the face of failure and more likely to persist in learning new skills.
Encouraging self-kindness can help mitigate the anxiety associated with learning and performance.
Not knowing how to use computers
iuytrefdgh436yujhe2
Being able to figure things out
The last sentence of the last comment...lol
naphomci
Following simple written directions
UnluckyObserver_1
Moreover, recognizing that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses is crucial in these scenarios. Acknowledging that we all have areas where we struggle can foster a more compassionate viewpoint. According to a study from Harvard University, understanding that skill acquisition varies from person to person can help alleviate the pressure we often place on ourselves and others.
This perspective can shift our focus from judgment to support, allowing for a more inclusive and understanding approach to skill development in our communities.
Moreover, engaging in growth mindset practices can also be beneficial. Research by Stanford psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck reveals that adopting a growth mindset, where individuals view abilities as developable, can lead to greater motivation and resilience.
This perspective encourages people to embrace challenges and learn from failures, rather than feeling defeated by them.
Promoting a growth mindset in educational and social settings can help individuals feel more capable and less pressured by societal expectations.
Being gentle with your things
GlassCannonLife
Make use of the index of a book
Source
It is baffling that some people can't look up answers online
SandpaperVoice
The Role of Social Learning
Social learning theory posits that we learn behaviors through observation and imitation of others. This concept, introduced by Albert Bandura, suggests that witnessing someone struggle can also serve as a learning opportunity for bystanders. Instead of merely judging, individuals can reflect on what not to do or consider ways to assist the individual in learning the skill.
Encouraging a culture of supportive learning can transform the experience from one of embarrassment to an opportunity for growth and development for both parties involved.
Practical Steps to Enhance Basic Skills
To effectively improve basic skills, structured learning environments can be incredibly beneficial. Programs that promote peer learning and mentorship can provide individuals with the support they need to develop these skills in a non-judgmental context.
Group activities that require collaboration can also enhance skill acquisition while fostering social connections, thus reducing feelings of isolation.
Creating an atmosphere that celebrates effort and improvement, rather than perfection, can significantly enhance learning outcomes.
Know when to call emergency services
UnwittingPlantKiller
This can be very annoying
Why would I clean up after myself when someone who messes things up is blaming me? I'd pack up too.
peaceful-otter
Hygiene, hygiene, hygiene...
Take your hygiene seriously.
DarkMonkey98
What a cooking method
Sneaky_Arachnid
The number of young people who can't operate a computer is alarming
Arcinbiblo12
Well, some people do fear water...
CameForTheFunOfIt
The scientific method
EarthExile
The utmost sympathy for anyone who can't cook
"Here, cook this," and you don't have the foggiest idea how to go about it... Whew!
TigerTownTerror
Normally, everyone ought to know one basic skill or another, but voila, you see someone who can’t mop, sweep, or do other basic tasks. Well, thanks to domestic staff, because some people's homes would be a huge truckload of dirt and dumping.
So tell us about your own experience with a basic skill that you saw someone do horribly.
Psychological Analysis
This discussion highlights how feelings of inadequacy regarding basic skills can stem from societal pressures and comparisons.
It’s essential to remember that everyone has different strengths and learning trajectories; fostering an environment of support and understanding can significantly improve individual confidence and skill development.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Recognizing the diverse nature of basic skills can help individuals approach learning with an open mind and a willingness to grow.
As noted by Dr. William Doherty, family therapist: 'Embracing a learning journey allows us to cultivate resilience and adaptability, which are essential for personal growth.'
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Ultimately, our reactions to others' struggles with basic skills reflect deeper psychological principles at play, including cognitive dissonance and social comparison. By shifting our mindset towards empathy and understanding, we can foster a more supportive environment that promotes skill acquisition and personal development. Emphasizing collaboration over judgment can enhance our collective ability to learn and grow together.
