Noun – bias

Meaning – a disproportionate weight, preference or inclination in favor of or against a person, group, idea or thing, usually in a way that is closed-minded, unfair or prejudicial.

Maybe all these big words make it sound more serious than it is. Did you notice that the words that describe the word (bias) sound and look more complicated than the word itself? Anyway, I only meant to make you understand and not scare you.

If it makes you feel better, we are all biased, about a person, idea or a thing. Some to a greater degree than others, but it’s not even our fault. It’s because life gives so many choices. Too many, in my opinion. Choosing a preference does not mean all other options are bad or you’re automatically biased, no. But it does mean there’s a ranking, even if you choose not to acknowledge it. Your preferred option ranked highest on your scale, that’s why you went with it.

Again, still not my point. I merely gave an extra thought to the word today because of my recent experience. It left me thinking, am I biased, are they biased, is the world biased, and how do you know when you are being biased or merely choosing a preference?

Sometimes you’re the victim, other times bias works in your favor. Either way, there will always be a choice. Yes, I am aware things are not always black and white. But you would agree that an either this or that situation always comes with its own kind of clarity.

For instance, I would speed up my pace or even break into a run if I’m by myself outside and there’s a man walking behind me. This does not automatically mean he is a threat to my safety. But one of the biases women have towards men is a lack of safety. Although backed by evidence, it does not make it true in all situations.

The same way you wouldn’t give a promotion or extend grace to someone because they are too young and you were twice their age before you had the same opportunity.

Biases can be intentional or not. It could even come from a place of love, or better still, work in your favor.

My point is, maybe if I wasn’t so closed-minded, I would see or even assume that the man walking behind me is simply going in the same direction.

Song of the moment- Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson

Talk soon, take care