Understanding the nuances of language, especially when dealing with mental states, is crucial for clear and effective communication. The concept of being “delusional” is often discussed, but its opposite is equally important to grasp.
This article delves into the multifaceted concept of being the opposite of delusional, exploring terms like rationality, lucidity, and groundedness. This understanding is beneficial for anyone seeking to improve their communication skills, particularly in fields like psychology, education, and even everyday interactions.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone interested in language, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what it means to be “reality-anchored.”
Table of Contents
- Definition: Opposite of Delusional
- Structural Breakdown of Rational Thought
- Types and Categories of Reality-Based Thinking
- Examples of Reality-Anchored Thinking
- Usage Rules and Considerations
- Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Cognitive Biases and Critical Thinking
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition: Opposite of Delusional
To understand the opposite of delusional, we must first define what it means to be delusional. Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that are not amenable to change in light of conflicting evidence. They are often a symptom of mental disorders like schizophrenia or delusional disorder. Therefore, the opposite of delusional refers to a state of mind characterized by clear, accurate perception of reality, logical reasoning, and the ability to adjust beliefs based on evidence. This encompasses several related concepts, including rationality, lucidity, groundedness, realism, and sanity. These terms all describe different facets of a mind that is in touch with reality.
The concept of being “opposite of delusional” is not a single, monolithic state. It’s a spectrum that incorporates various cognitive and emotional processes.
It’s about having a realistic appraisal of situations, understanding cause and effect, and being able to adapt to new information. It also involves the ability to recognize and correct errors in one’s own thinking.
It’s not simply about being “normal,” but about possessing the cognitive tools to navigate the world effectively and adaptively.
Structural Breakdown of Rational Thought
Rational thought, a key component of being the opposite of delusional, can be broken down into several structural elements. These include:
- Accurate Perception: The ability to correctly perceive sensory information and interpret it without distortion.
- Logical Reasoning: The capacity to draw valid inferences and conclusions from available information, using principles of logic and critical thinking.
- Evidence-Based Beliefs: Forming beliefs based on empirical evidence and being willing to revise those beliefs in light of new evidence.
- Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to adapt one’s thinking and behavior to changing circumstances and new information.
- Self-Awareness: Understanding one’s own thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and how they might influence perception and judgment.
- Emotional Regulation: The capacity to manage and regulate one’s emotions in a healthy and adaptive way.
These elements are interconnected and work together to enable rational thought. For example, accurate perception is necessary for gathering reliable evidence, which is then used to form evidence-based beliefs through logical reasoning.
Cognitive flexibility allows one to update those beliefs when new evidence emerges. Without these elements in place, thinking can become distorted, leading to unrealistic or delusional beliefs.
A breakdown in any one of these areas can contribute to a disconnect from reality.
Types and Categories of Reality-Based Thinking
The opposite of delusional is not a singular concept, but rather encompasses several related attributes. Here are some key categories:
Rationality
Rationality refers to the ability to think logically and make decisions based on reason and evidence. A rational person evaluates information objectively, considers different perspectives, and avoids biases.
Rationality is a cornerstone of sound judgment and effective problem-solving. It contrasts directly with the distorted thinking that characterizes delusions.
Lucidity
Lucidity denotes clarity of thought and awareness. A lucid individual can think clearly, understand complex ideas, and express themselves coherently.
Lucidity implies a state of mental clarity, free from confusion or disorientation. In contrast, delusions often involve confused or disorganized thinking.
Groundedness
Groundedness describes a sense of being connected to reality and the present moment. A grounded person is aware of their surroundings, their body, and their emotions.
Groundedness provides a sense of stability and security. Delusions, on the other hand, often involve a detachment from reality and a preoccupation with abstract or unrealistic ideas.
Realism
Realism is the ability to perceive and accept the world as it is, rather than how one wishes it to be. A realistic person has a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of reality.
Realism fosters adaptability and resilience. Delusions often involve an idealized or distorted view of reality.
Sanity
Sanity, in a general sense, refers to soundness of mind and the absence of mental disorder. A sane person can function effectively in society, maintain healthy relationships, and experience a range of emotions without being overwhelmed.
Sanity is a broad term that encompasses many aspects of mental health. The absence of delusions is a key indicator of sanity.
Examples of Reality-Anchored Thinking
To illustrate the concept of being the opposite of delusional, let’s examine various examples across different categories. The following tables provide scenarios and demonstrate how rationality, lucidity, groundedness, realism, and sanity manifest in everyday situations.
The first table focuses on examples of Rationality in different scenarios. It demonstrates how individuals use logic and reason to navigate various situations.
| Scenario | Rational Response | Delusional Response |
|---|---|---|
| Job Interview | Preparing thoroughly, researching the company, and answering questions honestly and thoughtfully. | Believing you are guaranteed the job because of a special connection or inherent superiority, regardless of qualifications. |
| Financial Investment | Researching investment options, considering risks and returns, and diversifying investments. | Investing all your money in a single, unproven venture based on a “gut feeling” or a belief that you have insider information. |
| Relationship Conflict | Communicating openly and honestly, listening to the other person’s perspective, and seeking compromise. | Believing the other person is intentionally trying to harm you or that you are always right, regardless of the situation. |
| Health Symptoms | Consulting a doctor, following medical advice, and taking prescribed medications. | Believing you have a rare and incurable disease based on internet research and ignoring medical professionals. |
| Academic Challenge | Studying diligently, seeking help from teachers or tutors, and practicing problem-solving skills. | Believing you are incapable of learning the material or that the teacher is deliberately failing you. |
| Car Trouble | Calling a mechanic, describing the symptoms accurately, and following their recommendations for repair. | Believing the car is possessed by a demon or that the mechanic is trying to scam you. |
| Lost Wallet | Retracing your steps, checking common places, and reporting the loss to the authorities. | Believing someone deliberately stole your wallet as part of a conspiracy against you. |
| Bad Weather | Checking the forecast, dressing appropriately, and taking necessary precautions. | Believing the weather is a personal attack or a sign of impending doom. |
| Traffic Jam | Remaining calm, listening to music or a podcast, and accepting the delay. | Believing the traffic jam is orchestrated to make you late and ruin your day. |
| Missed Appointment | Apologizing, rescheduling, and taking steps to avoid missing future appointments. | Believing the appointment was deliberately cancelled to inconvenience you. |
| Computer Problem | Troubleshooting, searching for solutions online, or seeking technical support. | Believing the computer is spying on you or that hackers are deliberately targeting you. |
| Food Spoilage | Discarding the food, cleaning the area, and taking steps to prevent future spoilage. | Believing the food was poisoned by someone who wants to harm you. |
| Minor Injury | Cleaning the wound, applying a bandage, and taking over-the-counter pain medication if needed. | Believing the injury is a sign of a serious underlying condition or a curse. |
| Unpleasant Smell | Identifying the source, ventilating the area, and taking steps to eliminate the odor. | Believing the smell is a toxic gas released by a secret organization. |
| Strange Noise | Investigating the source, identifying the cause, and taking appropriate action. | Believing the noise is a message from aliens or a supernatural entity. |
| Misplaced Keys | Searching systematically, checking common places, and asking others if they have seen them. | Believing someone deliberately hid your keys to prevent you from leaving. |
| Dead Plant | Removing the plant, cleaning the pot, and considering the reasons for its demise. | Believing the plant died because of negative energy directed at it. |
| Broken Appliance | Assessing the damage, attempting to repair it, or calling a repair service. | Believing the appliance was sabotaged by a competitor or a disgruntled employee. |
| Slightly Burnt Food | Adjusting cooking time in the future, scraping off the burnt parts, and eating the rest. | Believing someone intentionally sabotaged your cooking to humiliate you. |
| Negative Feedback | Reflecting on the feedback, identifying areas for improvement, and making necessary adjustments. | Believing the feedback is malicious and intended to undermine your confidence. |
The subsequent table illustrates Lucidity, showcasing clarity of thought and expression in various scenarios.
| Scenario | Lucid Response | Delusional Response |
|---|---|---|
| Explaining a Complex Idea | Using clear and concise language, providing relevant examples, and structuring the explanation logically. | Speaking in a rambling, disjointed manner, using obscure terminology, and failing to convey a coherent message. |
| Understanding a Scientific Concept | Grasping the underlying principles, connecting it to existing knowledge, and being able to explain it in your own words. | Misinterpreting the concept, drawing illogical conclusions, and believing it contradicts established scientific facts. |
| Participating in a Debate | Presenting well-reasoned arguments, listening attentively to opposing viewpoints, and responding respectfully. | Resorting to personal attacks, interrupting others, and refusing to acknowledge any validity in opposing arguments. |
| Writing an Essay | Developing a clear thesis statement, organizing the essay logically, and supporting claims with evidence. | Writing a disorganized and incoherent essay, lacking a clear thesis, and making unsupported claims. |
| Solving a Problem | Identifying the key issues, breaking the problem down into smaller parts, and developing a systematic solution. | Becoming overwhelmed by the problem, jumping to conclusions, and failing to develop a logical solution. |
| Describing a Dream | Recounting the dream in a coherent and chronological order, focusing on key details and emotions. | Describing the dream in a confusing and fragmented manner, attributing symbolic meanings without any basis in reality. |
| Answering a Question | Providing a direct and relevant answer, addressing all aspects of the question, and avoiding unnecessary details. | Giving a vague and rambling answer, avoiding the main point of the question, and including irrelevant information. |
| Following Instructions | Reading and understanding the instructions carefully, following each step precisely, and asking for clarification if needed. | Ignoring the instructions, assuming you know what to do, and making mistakes due to lack of attention. |
| Giving Directions | Providing clear and concise directions, using landmarks and street names, and repeating the directions if necessary. | Giving confusing and inaccurate directions, using vague references, and failing to ensure the person understands. |
| Explaining Your Feelings | Using specific and descriptive language, connecting your feelings to specific events, and expressing yourself honestly and respectfully. | Expressing your feelings in an exaggerated and dramatic manner, blaming others for your problems, and refusing to take responsibility for your emotions. |
| Understanding a Contract | Reading the terms carefully, asking for clarification on unclear points, and considering the implications before signing. | Signing the contract without reading it, assuming it is fair, and later regretting the decision. |
| Learning a New Skill | Focusing on the fundamentals, practicing regularly, and seeking feedback from experienced individuals. | Becoming frustrated easily, giving up quickly, and believing you are incapable of learning the skill. |
| Remembering Information | Using memory techniques, associating information with familiar concepts, and reviewing the information regularly. | Believing your memory is failing, becoming anxious about forgetting things, and avoiding situations that require memory recall. |
| Planning a Trip | Researching destinations, booking accommodations, and creating an itinerary based on your interests and budget. | Making impulsive travel decisions, failing to plan ahead, and ending up in stressful and uncomfortable situations. |
| Managing Your Time | Prioritizing tasks, creating a schedule, and sticking to it as much as possible. | Procrastinating, becoming overwhelmed by tasks, and missing deadlines. |
| Making a Decision | Gathering information, weighing pros and cons, and considering the potential consequences. | Making impulsive decisions, ignoring the risks, and regretting the outcome later. |
| Understanding a Movie Plot | Following the storyline, remembering the characters, and grasping the underlying themes. | Becoming confused by the plot, forgetting key details, and misinterpreting the meaning of the film. |
| Learning a Language | Studying grammar rules, practicing vocabulary, and immersing yourself in the language through conversation and media. | Becoming discouraged by the challenge, believing you are incapable of learning the language, and giving up prematurely. |
| Following a Recipe | Reading the instructions carefully, measuring ingredients accurately, and following the steps in the correct order. | Ignoring the recipe, improvising without understanding the principles, and ending up with a failed dish. |
| Understanding News | Reading multiple sources, verifying information, and considering different perspectives. | Believing everything you read online, sharing unverified information, and becoming caught up in misinformation. |
Here’s a table focusing on Groundedness, demonstrating a connection to reality and the present moment.
| Scenario | Grounded Response | Delusional Response |
|---|---|---|
| Experiencing Anxiety | Acknowledging the anxiety, identifying the triggers, and using relaxation techniques to calm down. | Believing the anxiety is a sign of impending doom or a supernatural attack. |
| Feeling Overwhelmed | Taking a break, focusing on one task at a time, and asking for help if needed. | Believing you are incapable of handling the situation and becoming paralyzed by fear. |
| Dealing with Stress | Practicing self-care, exercising, and spending time with loved ones. | Believing the stress is a deliberate attempt to sabotage you and becoming paranoid about others’ intentions. |
| Experiencing Physical Pain | Acknowledging the pain, seeking medical attention if necessary, and using pain management techniques. | Believing the pain is a sign of a serious underlying condition that doctors are missing. |
| Feeling Sad | Allowing yourself to feel the sadness, processing the emotions, and seeking support from others. | Believing the sadness is permanent and that you will never be happy again. |
| Being in Nature | Appreciating the beauty of the surroundings, feeling the sensations of the environment, and connecting with the natural world. | Believing the natural world is hostile and dangerous, and fearing hidden threats. |
| Eating a Meal | Savoring the flavors, paying attention to the textures, and enjoying the social interaction. | Believing the food is contaminated or that someone is trying to poison you. |
| Listening to Music | Focusing on the sounds, feeling the rhythm, and allowing yourself to be moved by the emotions. | Believing the music contains secret messages or that it is influencing your thoughts in a negative way. |
| Spending Time with Loved Ones | Being present in the moment, engaging in meaningful conversations, and expressing your affection. | Believing your loved ones are secretly plotting against you or that they no longer care about you. |
| Exercising | Focusing on your body, feeling the muscles working, and enjoying the physical sensations. | Believing exercise is harmful or that it will make you sick. |
| Taking a Shower | Feeling the water on your skin, enjoying the warmth, and focusing on the sensations. | Believing the water is contaminated or that someone is watching you. |
| Walking | Feeling your feet on the ground, noticing the scenery, and engaging with the surroundings. | Believing someone is following you or that the environment is dangerous. |
| Sleeping | Allowing yourself to relax, letting go of thoughts, and drifting off to sleep peacefully. | Believing you are being watched while you sleep or that you will be attacked in your sleep. |
| Meditating | Focusing on your breath, clearing your mind, and achieving a state of inner peace. | Believing meditation is dangerous or that it will open you up to negative forces. |
| Reading a Book | Immersing yourself in the story, connecting with the characters, and visualizing the events. | Believing the book contains hidden messages or that it is influencing your thoughts in a negative way. |
| Cleaning | Engaging with the present moment, focusing on the smells and sounds, and finding satisfaction in order. | Believing dirt will cause illness despite cleaning, or that cleaning is pointless because the universe is chaotic. |
| Working | Engaging with the present moment, focusing on the sensations, and finding satisfaction in work. | Believing your work will cause illness despite safety precautions, or that your work is pointless because the universe is chaotic. |
| Studying | Engaging with the present moment, focusing on the sounds, and finding satisfaction in learning. | Believing studying is pointless because the universe is chaotic, or the information is wrong. |
| Watching a Movie | Engaging with the present moment, focusing on the sounds, and finding satisfaction in entertainment. | Believing the movie contains secret messages or that it is influencing your thoughts in a negative way. |
| Talking to People | Engaging with the present moment, focusing on the sounds, and finding satisfaction in conversation. | Believing people are plotting against you or that they no longer care about you. |
Usage Rules and Considerations
When discussing the opposite of delusional, it’s important to use language carefully and avoid stigmatizing individuals with mental health conditions. Here are some guidelines:
- Avoid Labeling: Instead of labeling someone as “not delusional,” describe their specific behaviors or thought processes. For example, instead of saying “He’s not delusional,” say “He’s able to think logically and consider different perspectives.”
- Focus on Specific Behaviors: When describing someone’s ability to think rationally or realistically, focus on specific examples of their behavior. For example, “She made a well-reasoned decision based on available evidence.”
- Use Empathetic Language: When discussing mental health, use language that is respectful and empathetic. Avoid using derogatory or stigmatizing terms.
- Acknowledge the Spectrum: Recognize that mental health exists on a spectrum and that individuals may experience varying degrees of rationality, lucidity, and groundedness.
- Consult Professionals: If you are concerned about someone’s mental health, encourage them to seek professional help from a qualified mental health professional.
It’s also crucial to remember that cultural context can influence perceptions of reality. What is considered rational or realistic in one culture may not be in another.
Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of cultural differences when discussing these concepts.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Here are some common mistakes and misconceptions related to the opposite of delusional:
| Mistake/Misconception | Correct Understanding |
|---|---|
| Assuming that being “not delusional” means being perfectly rational all the time. | Everyone experiences cognitive biases and makes irrational decisions occasionally. The opposite of delusional is about having a general capacity for rational thought and being able to correct errors in thinking. |
| Equating “not delusional” with being “normal.” | “Normal” is a subjective term, and mental health exists on a spectrum. Someone can be “not delusional” without conforming to societal norms. |
| Believing that someone who is “not delusional” is always right. | Rationality does not guarantee correctness. Even the most rational individuals can make mistakes or have incomplete information. |
| Using the term “not delusional” as a way to dismiss or invalidate someone’s experiences. | It’s important to be respectful and empathetic when discussing mental health, even if you disagree with someone’s beliefs. |
| Thinking that the opposite of delusional is a fixed state. | Mental health can fluctuate over time. Individuals may experience periods of greater or lesser rationality, lucidity, and groundedness. |
Avoiding these mistakes and misconceptions is crucial for fostering clear communication and promoting understanding of mental health.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of the opposite of delusional with these practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Identifying Rational Responses
For each scenario, choose the most rational response:
| Scenario | Option A | Option B | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| You receive negative feedback at work. | Get angry and defensive, blaming others for your mistakes. | Reflect on the feedback, identify areas for improvement, and make a plan to address them. | B |
| You miss your bus. | Believe the bus driver deliberately skipped you. | Check the bus schedule, find an alternative route, and accept the delay. | B |
| You have a disagreement with a friend. | Assume your friend is always wrong and refuse to listen to their perspective. | Listen to your friend’s perspective, try to understand their point of view, and seek a compromise. | B |
| Your computer crashes. | Believe hackers are deliberately targeting you. | Troubleshoot the problem, search for solutions online, or seek technical support. | B |
| You lose your keys. | Believe someone deliberately hid them to inconvenience you. | Retrace your steps, check common places, and ask others if they have seen them. | B |
| You fail an exam. | Blame the teacher for being unfair and believe you are incapable of learning the material. | Analyze your study habits, identify areas where you struggled, and seek help from the teacher or a tutor. | B |
| You have a flat tire. | Believe someone deliberately slashed your tire as an act of vandalism. | Change the tire or call for roadside assistance and assess the damage. | B |
| You receive a spam email. | Believe someone is trying to steal your identity and panic. | Delete the email and be cautious about clicking on suspicious links. | B |
| You have trouble sleeping. | Believe you are cursed and will never sleep again. | Practice relaxation techniques, create a calming bedtime routine, and consult a doctor if the problem persists. | B |
| Your flight is delayed. | Believe the airline is deliberately trying to ruin your trip. | Check for updates, find alternative flight options, and accept the delay. | B |
Exercise 2: Identifying Lucid Communication
Which of the following examples demonstrates lucid communication?
- A person speaking incoherently, jumping from topic to topic without a clear connection.
- A person explaining a complex scientific concept using simple language and providing relevant examples.
- A person rambling on about conspiracy theories without providing any evidence.
Answer: 2
Exercise 3: Recognizing Groundedness
Which of the following scenarios demonstrates groundedness?
- A person constantly worrying about future events and neglecting the present moment.
- A person practicing mindfulness, focusing on their breath, and appreciating the present moment.
- A person dwelling on past regrets and feeling overwhelmed by guilt.
Answer: 2
Exercise 4: Multiple Choice
1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of someone who is the opposite of delusional?
a) Rationality
b) Lucidity
c) Groundedness
d) Fixed, false beliefs
Answer: d
2. Which of the following best describes realism?
a) Perceiving the world exactly as you want it to be
b) Perceiving and accepting the world as it is
c) Always being optimistic and ignoring negative aspects
d) Having unrealistic expectations about the future
Answer: b
3. Which of the following is an example of evidence-based belief?
a) Believing the earth is flat because you read it on the internet.
b) Believing vaccines cause autism despite scientific evidence to the contrary.
c) Believing in climate change based on scientific consensus.
d) Believing you will win the lottery because you have a “lucky feeling.”
Answer: c
4. Cognitive flexibility refers to:
a) The ability to stick to your beliefs no matter what.
b) The ability to adapt your thinking to new information.
c) The tendency to always agree with others.
d) The inability to change your mind.
Answer: b
5. The opposite of delusional is best described as:
a) A single, monolithic state
b) A spectrum incorporating cognitive and emotional processes
c) Simply being “normal”
d) Always being right
Answer: b
Advanced Topics: Cognitive Biases and Critical Thinking
For advanced learners, it’s important to understand cognitive biases and how they can affect rational thought. Cognitive biases are systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment. These biases can influence our perception, memory, and decision-making, even when we are trying to be rational. Some common cognitive biases include:
- Confirmation Bias: Seeking out information that confirms existing beliefs and ignoring information that contradicts them.
- Availability Heuristic: Overestimating the likelihood of events that are easily recalled, often due to their vividness or recency.
- Anchoring Bias: Relying too heavily on the first piece of information received (the “anchor”) when making decisions.
- Halo Effect: Allowing a positive impression in one area to influence opinions in other areas.
- Bandwagon Effect: Adopting beliefs or behaviors because many other people are doing so.
Understanding these biases is crucial for developing critical thinking skills. Critical thinking involves analyzing information objectively, identifying biases, and evaluating evidence before forming a conclusion. It’s a key skill for navigating a complex world and making informed decisions.
Additionally, exploring the philosophical concepts of epistemology (the study of knowledge) and metaphysics (the study of reality) can provide a deeper understanding of the nature of truth and reality. These concepts challenge us to examine our assumptions and consider alternative perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the opposite of delusional:
- Is being the opposite of delusional the same as being “normal”?
No, “normal” is a subjective term, and mental health exists on a spectrum. Someone can be the opposite of delusional without conforming to societal norms. It’s about having the capacity for rational thought and accurate perception of reality.
- Can someone be the opposite of delusional and still make mistakes?
Yes, rationality does not guarantee correctness. Everyone makes mistakes occasionally. The opposite of delusional is about having the ability to learn from mistakes and adjust beliefs based on evidence.
- How can I improve my rationality and lucidity?
Practice critical thinking skills, seek out diverse perspectives, challenge your own assumptions, and engage in activities that promote mental clarity, such as meditation or mindfulness.
- What should I do if I’m concerned about someone’s mental health?
Encourage them to seek professional help from a qualified mental health professional. Offer your support and understanding, but avoid trying to diagnose or treat them yourself.
- Is it possible to be completely free from cognitive biases?
It’s difficult to eliminate cognitive biases entirely, as they are often unconscious and automatic. However, by being aware of these biases and practicing critical thinking, you can minimize their influence on your decisions.
- How does culture influence perceptions of reality?
Cultural norms, values, and beliefs can shape our perceptions of the world. What is considered rational or realistic in one culture may not be in another. It’s important to be mindful of cultural differences when discussing these concepts.
- What is the role of emotions in rational thought?
Emotions can influence our thinking, both positively and negatively. While strong emotions can sometimes cloud judgment, emotions also provide valuable information about our values and priorities. The key is to be aware of your emotions and manage them effectively.
- How can I help someone who is struggling to connect with reality?
Be patient, empathetic, and non-judgmental. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer your support. Avoid arguing with them about their beliefs, as this may be counterproductive. Focus on building trust and creating a safe space for them to express themselves.
Conclusion
Understanding the opposite of delusional is essential for clear communication and a better grasp of mental well-being. Terms like rationality, lucidity, groundedness, realism, and sanity are all facets of a mind connected to reality.
By understanding these concepts, we can better navigate the world, make informed decisions, and support others in their mental health journey. Remember that being “reality-anchored” is not about perfection, but about having the tools to perceive and adapt to the world around us.
The journey to cultivate these qualities involves continuous learning, self-reflection, and a willingness to challenge our own assumptions. By embracing critical thinking, seeking diverse perspectives, and practicing empathy, we can all strengthen our connection to reality and foster a more understanding and supportive society.
Keep exploring, keep questioning, and keep striving for a clearer understanding of ourselves and the world around us.