Everyday Encounters of Cognitive Dissonance: 5 manifestations in ordinary living

Everyday Manifestations of Cognitive Dissonance: Recognizing It in Our Daily Encounters

In a shift of scenery, a move to a small town is on the horizon due to a partner's promotion. This four-hour journey away from the city might seem daunting, but it presents opportunities for visiting friends and family more frequently.

As we settle into our new surroundings, it's interesting to observe the effects of cognitive dissonance, a theory first proposed by psychologist Leon Festinger. Cognitive dissonance describes the discomfort experienced when two cognitions are incompatible with each other. For instance, valuing health but not getting enough exercise can lead to justification for not exercising regularly.

Another example of cognitive dissonance might be forgetting to pick up after your dog during a walk, resulting in feelings of guilt and justification for not doing so. This discomfort can prompt us to make positive changes when we realise our beliefs and actions are at odds.

Living in a small town offers a unique set of challenges and advantages. On one hand, it's possible to get around town without a car, and the lower cost of living and less traffic are certainly appealing. On the other hand, it may require adjusting to a slower pace of life and fewer entertainment options.

Working in a new environment can sometimes lead to distractions, such as browsing the internet or watching TV shows instead of focusing on work tasks. It's worth noting that research suggests that people are more productive when they work in short bursts and take frequent breaks.

Cognitive dissonance can also manifest in social situations, such as when making a decision that goes against one's personal values or beliefs. Signs of cognitive dissonance may include discomfort before making a decision, feelings of guilt over past decisions, and doing something out of social pressure, not true interest.

Resolving cognitive dissonance may involve changing behaviours, mindsets, or perspectives. For example, one might decide to buy cage-free eggs and replace one meat purchase with humanely raised meat or a meat substitute per shopping trip as a step towards aligning actions with values.

In conclusion, moving to a small town and navigating cognitive dissonance can be a learning experience. By understanding and addressing cognitive dissonance, we can make positive changes in our lives and adjust more smoothly to new environments.