Wellness Series 2024: Why Do We Misread Others?

MISREADING OTHERS:  WHAT MAKES IT SO COMMON?

"A man who I didn't recognize followed me up the stairwell in my apartment building. I really feared he was trying to follow me into my unit. Later, I discovered that he just moved in. Since then, I have tried to be pleasant and friendly. But he snubs me. Every time I now walk by him, I feel tension. Is this going to go on for months? Years? How did I get him so wrong?"

"There was something about a new coworker that didn't sit right with me. She made me downright suspicious. My behavior toward her was guarded. I hesitated to be helpful or even speak to her. But the other employees have praised her healthy energy. After a few months, I grew to trust her. But while she is civil toward me, she acts like I hurt her and won't forgive.  When it came to making a first impression, I guess I blew it (sigh)."

"Since being single again, I have been lonely. During the years I was married, lots of my old friends drifted away. When Chris came into my life, I didn't have to attend concerts alone anymore. It was a shot in the arm. What I didn't figure out is that Chris was trying to scam me. How did I fall for that?"

"I had a wonderful idea to celebrate our 20th anniversary. We could relive the site of our honeymoon. When I brought the idea to my wife, she said 'Okay.'  So, I made the plans. But as soon as we arrived, she criticized every detail. She was so unpleasant, I felt like divorcing. If she didn't want to go, why didn't she just say so?!"

Have you ever experienced any of the above? Misreading others is more common than some realize. After all, who likes to admit getting someone wrong? It can involve anyone from a stranger to a roommate. During this seminar, we will examine theories about what leads us to regrettably mistrust or distrust, and ways to decrease their frequency. If participants desire, they are welcome to share their experiences.

To be held on the 2nd floor of the Beverly Therapists Office.

$10 fee.

4-8 participants.

Register here.

About the presenter: With 25 years in public health and three years at Beverly Therapists, Eric Lindquist, LCPC has worked with hundreds of individuals and dozens of families. Eric can be reached directly at (773) 875-8803.