Pilar Sordo: 'We want to freeze magical moments because we know they will pass; we are aware that everything passes'

In a candid conversation with LA NACION, renowned Chilean psychologist and writer Pilar Sordo shared her insights on the evolving landscape of human connection and emotional well-being. Sordo observes a concerning trend: a reduction in vocabulary and a dwindling capacity for patience, which she argues are directly impacting our ability to express ourselves and foster meaningful relationships. The exchange of nuanced language for superficial emojis, she contends, erodes the depth of our interactions, leaving us emotionally impoverished.

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We have been reducing patience, because not only is it difficult for me to tell you what is happening to me, but you increasingly have less patience to listen to me.

Sordo’s critique extends to the modern obsession with perpetual happiness. She posits that this societal demand for constant positivity actively discourages the discomfort necessary for genuine growth. According to Sordo, it is precisely in moments of unease and challenge that we are prompted to confront our priorities, adapt, and evolve. Embracing this discomfort, she suggests, is not a sign of weakness but a crucial invitation to personal transformation.

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Discomfort is the only invitation to growth.

Furthermore, Sordo highlights the profound impact of our internal dialogue on our external reality. Her research indicates that the way we speak to ourselves directly shapes our self-esteem and, consequently, our perception of the world. Cultivating a positive and constructive inner voice, she explains, allows us to project confidence and build healthier relationships. This self-awareness is key to navigating life's inevitable challenges, including grief and the pursuit of purpose.

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The pleasure would be wonderful to freeze. Those moments that have magic, one would like to perpetuate them, because besides, we know, I think that also influences a lot, that when you are living that wonderful thing, we also know that it is going to pass.

From a Chilean perspective, Sordo's observations resonate deeply with a cultural context that often values emotional expression and strong interpersonal bonds. Her emphasis on the importance of authentic communication and the acceptance of life's complexities offers a valuable counterpoint to global trends that may prioritize superficiality and avoidance of difficult emotions. Her work reminds us that true connection and personal growth stem from embracing the full spectrum of human experience, including the uncomfortable truths.

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How you talk to yourself defines your self-esteem and your vision of the world.