The Compass Podcast

Cognitive DissonanceWhen we introduce to the world something new or achieve something big. Sometimes, the people who find it hardest to rejoice in our success, will be those closest to us.Why does this happen?The answer to this, explains Jewish Psychologist Leon Festinger, is:Cognitive Dissonance. - The mental discomfort that results from holding two conflicting beliefs, values, or attitudes. People tend to seek consistency in their attitudes and perceptions, so this conflict causes feelings of unease or discomfort.for example: a soldier sent on a mission he doesn't believe in, will either need to change his position, so that the task would now be justified, or quit the mission to adjust his behavior to his position. When we make a difference in our lives, take a risk, or achieve it, It threatens those closest to us:We're going to do things they're afraid to do on their own, or they'd like to and couldn't.How come that this guy suddenly starts a business and not us?! How come he got the job even though I'd pick him last by force?To settle this contradiction with ourselves – without having to conclude that we’re maybe now so competent, after all… - we're going to have to convince ourselves that “this person is fake”…This is the topic we’re discussing in this week’s episode (Yiddish).Listen & Enjoy!