Pilar Sordo on relationships: 'We have less patience every day'

Psychologist and writer Pilar Sordo observes a societal trend toward diminished patience and a reduced capacity for deep interpersonal connections. In a conversation with José del Rio for LA NACION, Sordo highlighted how the human inclination to express themselves with fewer words, often resorting to emojis, negatively impacts emotional stability and the depth of relationships.

Sordo cited Spanish psychiatrist José Luis Marín, who suggests that a lack of words leads to illness. She elaborated on the dwindling patience, noting, "We have been reducing patience, because not only is it difficult for me to tell you what's happening to me, but you also have less patience to listen to me." This dynamic, she explained, makes it challenging to foster conversations where both parties feel truly heard and attended to, transforming dialogue into an "intermittent monologue" rather than a space for mutual transformation.

Her research over eight years indicates that an individual's internal dialogue profoundly influences self-perception, self-love, and their outlook on the world. "How you speak to yourself defines your self-love and your vision of the world," Sordo stated. This self-perception, she added, dictates how people navigate grief, define life purpose, and express emotions.

Furthermore, Sordo criticized the societal pressure for constant happiness, arguing that discomfort is the primary catalyst for personal growth. "Discomfort is the only invitation to growth," she affirmed. She believes that embracing this discomfort, though difficult in a culture that favors avoidance, is crucial for change. Sordo also defended the fundamental human right to change one's mind, make mistakes, and leave situations that compromise well-being.