Psychologist: We Come Into the World to Unlearn and Discover Ourselves

Chilean psychologist and writer Pilar Sordo believes that humans enter the world primarily to unlearn what they have been taught, rather than to acquire new knowledge. She emphasizes that internal dialogue is a crucial tool for self-discovery and self-care. Sordo suggests that this process of "unlearning" is fundamental to personal growth and understanding oneself.

Sordo observes a concerning trend of reduced vocabulary use in everyday conversation, which she argues limits individuals' ability to articulate their inner experiences. Citing Spanish psychiatrist José Luis Marín, she explains that a lack of words can lead to emotional and psychological distress. The exchange of language for digital symbols like emojis, she contends, further erodes the depth of human connections.

Furthermore, Sordo points to a societal decline in patience, which impedes genuine listening and understanding in conversations. She notes that the difficulty in expressing oneself, coupled with a diminished capacity to listen, transforms dialogues into fragmented monologues. For relationships to evolve, Sordo states, there must be a willingness to be transformed by what others share, moving beyond superficial exchanges.

Her research over eight years indicates that an individual's internal dialogue profoundly shapes their self-esteem and perception of the world. "How you speak to yourself defines your self-esteem and your vision of the world," she explained. This self-perception influences how people navigate grief, define their life's purpose, and express their emotions. Sordo also critiques the societal pressure for constant happiness, asserting that discomfort is the true catalyst for personal growth and the reevaluation of priorities.