Written by Ruzhdi Gashi, writer and positive thinking coach.
In everyday life, we often encounter situations where we feel the need to explain ourselves or our actions. However, these explanations don’t always reach the people we’re addressing, because many times, people interpret information based on their own beliefs and desires. The expression “People only hear what they want to hear” holds a deep truth about the nature of human communication and perception.
People are influenced by their prejudices, emotions, and past experiences, which often limit their ability to listen objectively. When we try to explain ourselves to someone who already has a formed opinion, it is difficult to change their perspective. Instead of truly listening to what we have to say, they often select parts of our words that reinforce their existing views.
Moreover, the constant effort to explain every action or thought can be exhausting and often pointless. Our time and energy are limited resources, and spending them trying to convince people who are not willing to listen can pull us away from our goals and priorities. A simple example might be trying to explain the reasons behind a personal decision to someone who is skeptical. Often, despite detailed explanations, they still may not understand us.
This does not mean we shouldn’t communicate or stand up for our views, but rather that we should be wise in choosing the moments and people with whom we share our explanations. It is better to focus on those who are open to listening and understanding. Also, sometimes our actions speak louder than words and are a more effective way of expressing our truth.
In conclusion, the effort to explain everything to everyone is an unnecessary burden. People only hear what resonates with their own thoughts, and that is a truth we must accept. Instead of wasting time trying to convince those who are unwilling to listen, we should focus on what truly matters: living according to our values and purpose.
