People who ask about the nature of indifference most often suffer from it themselves. It is because of the emptiness in the soul that the problem of indifference becomes relevant for them. Arguments in defense of indifference are rare: these people are more likely to be accused of callousness. But what are the origins of indifference in each individual person? Is it always a negative characteristic, or can it be due to external causes?
What is indifference?
Psychology claims that this state is akin to apathy. It is characterized by a loss of interest in what was once significant and important, brought joy. A person loses an active position in relation to life. For example, when a former spouse or relationship partner becomes indifferent, the meaning that once seemed important loses its meaning. Previously, the connection was filled with emotions, and it seemed that such indifference was impossible in principle. But time passes, and it becomes all the same where and what she or he is doing, what is the state of he alth of this person, with whom he spends time.
What kind of people can become indifferent
Sometimesindifference is a consequence of psychological characteristics. The owner of a phlegmatic temperament, with all the desire, will not be able to experience such emotions as choleric or sanguine.
In other cases, indifference has its origins in selfish inclinations. This may be due to upbringing, being in a negative social environment, simply lacking an ethical sense.
But even a far from narcissistic person can cool off towards another after causing any offense. His heart closes, and he ceases to experience joy, positive feelings, fully feeling for himself what indifference is. But at least the lack of interest is subjectively easier to bear than the emotional pain.
Charity and modern man
Residents of megacities are more inclined to show indifference. Arguments can be as follows: eternal employment, problems, lack of time and money. However, this does nothing to improve a world in which people die unjustly every day. Of course, any person from time to time is given the opportunity to do a good deed. For example, buy a kilogram of apples from an ancient old woman selling near the subway exit. But those who choose to justify the fast pace of life are probably forgetting one important thing. This is what the Buddhist religion teaches us: nothing is permanent. And those who earn millions today, and ordinary middle managers, and railway station bums - all people come into this world and leave in the same way. The one whotoday he bathes in luxury, no matter how confident he is in his abilities, tomorrow he may lose everything or hear a terrible diagnosis.
They say that such indifference is just a defensive reaction. But we must agree that this burying your head in the sand is a completely childish way of perceiving the world. All that a person can "take" with him to the next world is good deeds, a good attitude towards people.
What can be done to get rid of indifference?
You need to let go of all grudges. If there is a goal to overcome indifference to a person in oneself, one must learn to control the flow of attention, even if a very bad deed has been committed by him. You need to be able to redirect the focus from negative to positive points in time, learn to notice the good in your neighbor again. Since this is usually very difficult to do, meditation can be a significant help here.
The well-known psychologist Lyudmila Petranovskaya, speaking about the ethical feeling in children, compares it with talent. In the context of working with children in a group, it is recommended to help his development. The same can be said about the capacity for empathy. It must be consciously cultivated so that the heart does not become indifferent. A classic example of such cultivation is to help the poor or the sick, to shelter a homeless dog.
If indifference is manifested in relation to work or any activity, then it may be necessary to take a break from the routine for a while. Or consider alternativesemployment.
