"Positive Thinking" Peer Pressure - What is really Going on here?
Sometime ago (and even recently), I have had so many dumb, pathetic and stupid, extremist “Positive Thinkers” running around trying to brainwash me with their delusions of the world.
Most of the time, they try and make out they are your “Friend”, and they really care – but more often that not (i.e. at least 80% of the time), there is a clear commercial agenda going on.
Besides the obvious examples of MLM / Pyramid Seminars (such as the dangerous one that you know I am referring too) which teach you to prey on friends and family, I am also making a reference to the much more subtle ones.
During a course I attended some time ago, it was a great “Positive Group”.
I actually mean this positively for a change – I really liked some of the people in it (and made some great lasting friends too).
One sinister element too it though, was how the provider of the course was really trying the “Positive Hard” sell to get into your wallet. People who purchased more products or upgraded to another high option – were loudly applauded and congratulated in front of the group.
Also, a professional Networking Group (which you probably know what I am referring too) – really makes out that “If Your Serious” and “Positive” about your Business and getting new clients – you will join us immediately and pay us your money.
What I have found as in from the playground, right through to Modern Day, some really dodgy, shonky and unethical “Positive Thinkers” out there have figured out how to incorporate themes of “Peer Pressure” into what they are doing.
That is, you do what the group says and confirm (usually by giving your time / money / obedience) they applaud you, and if you don’t – they vilify you.
So if your thinking, “So what Ed? So what if a group congratulates you for confirming? That is a good thing right?” – I am going to argue that it’s not. Because, “Positive Thinking” if often used to disguise from really unethical money-making schemes.
I have met so many “Spiritual”, “Positive” people out there – who are cleverly designed sharks who are trying to rip you off.
I have also met some real “Genuine”, “Good-Natured” and “Truly Positive” people out there as well.
Just be careful please! If you have just met someone and they are “Too Nice” to you – remember, there is a likely agenda going on. And, these guys don’t give a rats about your dreams or goals – to them, you are merely just a “Cog” in a machine to them.
I wish I learnt this stuff 20 years ago! 🙂
No responses yet