The predictability of mankind...

Here I was thinking we're all individuals. No one is like us. We're unique.

Well, I'm starting to think that the way you and I are going to live our lives tomorrow is pretty much predictable. Predictable in that you couldn't for sure predict where you're going to walk, fly or drive... but the way you act when you a) Meet a new person b) A surprising event happens in life, or c) If nothing changes at all.

I've recently been doing a bit of random thinking about how I can come across to people in a different way. For example, when I meet a new person, it takes a while (unless I've had a few beers) before people give me the time of day or understand me. Usually when I meet people first off I'm a little bit shy, but on the other hand, even when I'm forthcoming in terms of adding a bit of humour to a situation people still 'prefer' to hang out with others. Needless to say, I was interested in how I can go about giving off a better first off and continued impression.

I came across these test whereby they ask a few questions and based on what answers you give them they give you a brief outline of who you are and what type of characteristics you have. I gave it a go and shit me dead it was exactly right. Every time. It came up with the fact that I might take me a while to get to know someone new and become friends etc etc the exact issue I was looking for answers!

Here's the link if you want to give it a shot yourself (if anyone's actually reading this) and see for yourself.

Now I can see how a lot of people might say, well that's completely unremarkable. Any numbskull can stand there and give you a run down on what characteristics he thinks you have. But the accuracy of the answers did surprise me a little.

Take this hypothetical scenario for example.

If you wanted to know how to deal with people, or on the flip side, manipulate people. All you would need is to understand based on the answers to the questions in these tests you could start making mental notes on how to talk your way into making this person do anything for you... because after all... and this is proven somewhere credible I'm sure... people in their most purest form, just want to be understood and loved. If you could know how to read people by their physical appearance and the way they talk... you've got them hook and sinker.

Which brings me back to my point of this blog... are we really all that unique? Do we really make spontaneous decisions? Or are those spontaneous decisions based on events leading up to that decision, thus making the fact that you might do something out of the ordinary tomorrow predictable?

Food for thought I guess...