How to Become a Better Eyewitness of Life

Remember that perceptions are reconstructions of reality.

If you are going to interpret some one or something make sure you get your facts correct. When doing something it is always important to get it done accurately. When you are making an assumption about a certain someone or an incident you happen to witness make sure you are telling it as the way you see it and not what you think happened. For example, if you happen to notice that there was a different car parked at your neighbors’ home don’t assume that it is their car. First find out who the car belongs to and get your facts straight before you say anything.

Break perception habits and interrupt habituation.

Being a pre-school teacher I always liked to break perception habits such as when I normally had devotion, I would usually let the students choose a song before we began. One time I invited another teacher to conduct the devotion. The teacher chose the song and she was someone they were not used to so they were very attentive.

Shift adaptation levels and broaden frames of reference by seeking out of the ordinary experience.

Back in Jamaica where I used to live we had a tradition to cook soup on a Saturday. Now that I am living in America I realize that I have broken the tradition by eating something different from the stuff I used to eat. They don’t sell them here such as: breadfruit or sweet sop fruits that grow in Jamaica. Instead of doing stuff I would normally do I am forced to do things differently now.

Be aware of perceptions sets.

For example, be aware of people that you meet on the internet, such as the work at home jobs, because things aren’t always what they seem. They will tell you some thing then later you realize that you have been tricked. I would say don’t look at things as you think they are because things aren’t always what they seem. So be careful of the people around you. Don’t make assumptions or jump to conclusions.

 Be aware of the ways in which motives and emotions influence perception.

 Most people I know aren’t easily swayed into things they really don’t want to be a part of, while others are not aware of how easily they can be swayed. They normally don’t look into things before even checking it out first. Think to yourself what will happen if I pursue that? You shouldn’t let any body influence you into anything you are not sure of. This is related to the above question. Don’t let prejudices or assumptions be conclusive.

Make a habit of engaging in reality testing

Everyone’s perceptions about life are different from each other. Some people like to go into details about certain things they really don’t know anything about or don’t understand. Usually when you don’t know something don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you are being asked to do something you really don’t have any knowledge of, do some enquiry before you proceed. Always ask questions if you don’t have knowledge of what it’s all about. I am a very skeptical person. I like to check out things before actually doing them.

Pay attention.

Whether you are at a function or at school be very attentive and try not to be distracted by anything. Be aware of people around you, get to know your neighbors. If you are driving concentrate on the road. Try to be completely focused on what you are doing at the moment. 

 (All my information is from our text book).