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

One Reddit question about basic life skills turned into a surprisingly relatable thread, because plenty of people have watched someone fumble a task they thought was universal. From cooking eggs to using a washing machine, the replies quickly showed that what feels obvious to one person can be a mystery to another.

In this case, u/Gaelic_Gladiator_64 asked the r/AskReddit community which basic skill they grew up assuming everyone knew, only to realize some people were doing it badly. The comments range from funny to baffling, and a few of them hit a little too close to home.

The thread only gets more entertaining from there.

Here's the question

u/Gaelic_Gladiator_64

The 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.

Marcella111001

Read the instructions

madInTheBox

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 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.

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. Recognizing this cycle can help individuals respond more thoughtfully when they see others struggling, moving beyond judgment to potentially supportive interactions.

The recent discussion on Reddit about basic skills highlights a surprising reality: many individuals struggle with tasks that are often taken for granted. This phenomenon can significantly impact one's self-esteem, as people may feel inadequate when they see others performing basic skills poorly. Such feelings can lead to avoidance behaviors and even social anxiety, illustrating the connection between perceived competence and emotional well-being. To combat this, it is essential to foster an environment where learning is viewed as a continuous journey rather than a final goal. Emphasizing growth and resilience allows individuals to embrace their shortcomings and encourages a healthier relationship with their own abilities.

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

One effective method is cognitive empathy, where individuals consciously try to understand the feelings and experiences of others.

Messy-sister chaos feels similar to asking your sister to move out over a cleaning conflict.

Self-compassion is vital in addressing feelings of inadequacy when faced with new challenges.

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.

In examining the Reddit discussion around basic skills that people assumed everyone knew, it is evident that fostering a growth mindset could significantly influence how individuals approach these essential life skills. The idea that abilities can be developed rather than being fixed encourages a more resilient attitude towards learning. This perspective is particularly relevant when encountering the surprising lack of proficiency in tasks many consider fundamental.

As highlighted in the article, when individuals are confronted with others struggling with basic skills, it can serve as a wake-up call to reflect on their own abilities. Instead of viewing these challenges as reasons for defeat, embracing them as opportunities for growth can lead to increased motivation. Encouraging a growth mindset in both educational and social contexts can empower individuals to feel more capable and less burdened by the pressure of 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

Social learning theory posits that we learn behaviors through observation and imitation of others. This concept 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.

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. 

The discussion surrounding basic skills highlights the importance of approaching learning with an open mind.

The reactions to individuals struggling with basic skills reveal not only a societal expectation but also the complexities of human psychology. The discussions among Redditors highlight a shared understanding that while some skills seem innate, many others require guidance and practice. Instead of reacting with judgment, it would be more beneficial to approach these situations with empathy. This shift in perspective could lead to a more supportive community where learning and personal growth are prioritized. By fostering collaboration rather than criticism, we can enhance our collective journey toward mastering these fundamental skills.

Want to know how Reddit handled confronting a sister for slacking on family chores? Should I confront my sister for slacking on family chores.