Say it out aloud

Have you wondered how a particular person - say your mother, or your friend - can always tell when you're lying? The human brain is a brilliant and natural lie detector; only caveat is that you need to know the person who is speaking, be familiar with his voice and intonation.

It occurred to me that this might be useful to figure out when you're lying to yourself. That's right. Yourself. The next time you have a doubt as to whether you did the right thing, or are doing the right thing - whether you may have deluded yourself that something is true, or lied to yourself because it is convenient to do so, apply this test. Say it out aloud. You'd be surprised. You can often tell from the sound of your own voice, from the conviction in it, if you've been lying to yourself all along.

I had an argument with someone a few weeks ago, and some harsh words were said. When I revisited it in my mind I couldn't quite figure out who had been in the wrong. So I said it aloud, "I was a jerk," and I knew it to be true.

Perhaps this has more applications... a relationship litmus test, anyone? Say it out aloud, "I am in love," and you'll know if it is true or not? ;)

Cheers,
Prashanth.