Our brains are complex
The Human Mind is the most elaborate and complex part of the body. Even in 2021, where technology has far surpassed itself and space travel is becoming a thing, we cannot fully understand the inner workings of the mind. Countless studies and researches have been conducted to figure out the mind, but we are still very far off from understanding it.
This article will be based on research done in 2000 called “The Spotlight Effect.” It discusses the familiar concept of human beings: they feel like they’re being seen by everyone around them – when in actuality, they’re not.
The “feeling” of being seen
Everyone can probably relate to this one way or another – we often feel as if we are being seen or watched by everyone around us. The feeling of being in the “spotlight” is common among people from every part of the world and all walks of life – regardless of their position in society.
We often feel like the world is watching us, looking at our every move, judging us based on what we do or how we act. The feeling, in simple terms, is entirely mutual. But surprisingly enough, the reality of this is completely different.
The study by Gilovich
Gilovich, T., Medvec, V. H., & Savitsky, K. from The American Psychological Association state in their research paper:
This research provides evidence that people overestimate the extent to which their actions and appearance are noted by others, a phenomenon dubbed the spotlight effect.
Part One – A Flashy T-Shirt
Gilovich, T., Medvec, V. H., & Savitsky, K. conducted a study in 2000 where they tried to see whether others noticed the changes in us or not. In this study, college students were asked to wear flashy t-shirts, which were bound to receive attention. The t-shirt in question was of Barry Manilow. But to everyone’s surprise, when the college students wore those t-shirts and walked around campus, no one paid attention.
Part Two – A Normal T-Shirt
Part two of this study consisted of the college students wearing their usual clothes to see whether the change in attire would make people pay attention to them. Yet again, the result was unanimously the same – the college students were ignored.
What does this mean?
This means, no matter how much we “feel” like we’re being watched or we’re in the spotlight – we’re not. Our minds tend to make us feel a certain way when we’re in social situations; it could try to portray as if it can read other people’s minds too – but it can’t, and our emotions and feelings are our own. This means that no matter how you present yourself, people will not put you in the spotlight or pay attention to you unless you want them to.
So, I’m invisible?
In a way, yes. No matter how much we think people care about how we look, they don’t. They’re too engrossed in their thoughts to pay attention to you; the same goes for you. It’s an ironic situation that leads many people to become insecure about themselves where they shouldn’t.
Life is hard; it’s a constant struggle for everyone; we are trying our best to get through the day with happiness and calm. The feeling of being invisible should be seen as a blessing, not a curse. Live your life the way you want, and let others live theirs.
You’re NOT invisible to your loved ones
One important thing to note here is that this does not apply to your family and friends. Those who have emotions for you will always pay attention to your appearance, moves, the smallest of details about you. And that’s the real blessing here. To be seen by people you want to be seen by and not by the whole world. To be in the spotlight of those who love you is a fantastic feeling.
You can put your mind at ease; you’re in the spotlight only for those who care for you or hold emotions for you – not for that random stranger walking down the road.
Comment Your Thoughts Below
What do you think about this? Do you feel like you’re in the spotlight? Talk to us in the comment section below!
