The Challenge of Facing Unpleasant Truths

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You know that feeling when you just can’t bring yourself to check your bank account? Yep, I’m guilty of that too! I’ve let weeks, even months pass without a peek, convincing myself I’ll look in a few days. But the longer I wait, the more anxious I get. When the funds are running low, the thought of logging in and facing the reality—whether I’m just low on cash or worse, overdrawn—makes me squirm. Ignorance is bliss, right?

We’ve all been there: dodging something we know will deliver bad news. Maybe you’ve delayed that doctor’s appointment because you’re worried about those nagging symptoms. Or perhaps, like me, you think if you avoid the scale long enough after the holidays, the extra pounds will magically vanish.

The Psychology Behind Information Avoidance

Research has shown that we’re quite adept at steering clear of bad news, a phenomenon known as information avoidance. Studies reveal that individuals often shy away from crucial information even when it could be beneficial. For instance, many people don’t want to know their risk of a serious illness, despite the potential for treatment. After making decisions, people tend to seek out information that reaffirms those choices, making them twice as likely to read content that aligns with their beliefs rather than challenges them.

Dr. Alex Harper, a psychology expert, identifies three primary reasons we might shy away from unwelcome information:

1. Shifting Beliefs: Discovering that a long-held belief is wrong can be tough, especially if it’s tied to our identity. It’s simpler to cling to what we currently think rather than challenge it.
2. Unwanted Action: Learning that a minor toothache requires a root canal is inconvenient and costly, and it’s easier to ignore it for now.
3. Emotional Discomfort: Let’s face it—sometimes we just want to avoid feeling upset. Stepping on the scale after a holiday binge can lead to some unwanted feels.

Why Knowing is Usually Better

While it’s understandable to want to avoid tough truths, this mindset often focuses too much on short-term comfort. If that toothache turns out to be something serious, delaying a visit to the dentist will only lead to more pain and complications. Gaining clarity—even if it’s uncomfortable—means we can take action. If I do need a root canal, knowing now allows me to address it sooner rather than later.

Avoiding reality doesn’t change it. If I’ve gained weight, stepping away from the scale won’t make those pounds disappear. Aligning our beliefs with reality empowers us to make positive changes, whether that means shedding some weight or seeking necessary medical care.

Of course, there are times when ignorance might feel preferable. For instance, I wouldn’t want to know if an ex was unfaithful years ago—it’s irrelevant and could just hurt feelings. However, these instances are probably fewer than we think.

Overcoming the Tendency to Avoid Information

So, how do you actually confront these uncomfortable truths? How can you muster the courage to check your balance, step on the scale, or visit a healthcare provider? Dr. Harper and his team have explored this and found that engaging in a “contemplation” exercise can help. By reflecting on the long-term benefits of knowing your health risks, you can shift from an immediate aversion to a more rational consideration of how knowing could improve your situation.

The next time you find yourself hesitating to check your bank account or weighing yourself, consider taking a moment to think it through. Are you really better off not knowing? Or could you be making things harder for yourself in the long run?

Creating a pros and cons table can be enlightening. For example, avoiding my bank balance might save me some distress now, but it’ll only grow more daunting with time. On the flip side, checking it could lead to a manageable plan for my finances—who knows, it might not even be as bad as I fear!

Facing the truth can be tough, but it’s also empowering. As Aldous Huxley wisely stated, “Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.”

For more insights on this topic, check out our blog here, and if you’re curious about the journey of home insemination, this resource is a great place to start. For additional information on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC offers excellent guidance.

Summary

Ignoring unpleasant truths might feel easier in the moment, but facing them often leads to better long-term outcomes. By understanding our tendencies to avoid bad news and recognizing the potential benefits of confronting reality, we can take proactive steps toward improving our lives.