Rationalization... friend or foe?

Rationalization: An attempt to explain or justify (one's own or another's behavior or attitude) with logical, plausible reasons, even if these are not true or appropriate.


We are all familiar with the term of 'rationalization', we are mostly familiar with it's true meaning... but many of us are almost lost when it comes to using rationalization properly. It goes without saying that rationalization has saved us in many circumstances, even when it becomes an argument within ourselves! It also goes without saying, that being on the other end can be one of the most frustrating things to endure. So, how can we meet in the middle?


It is said that rationalization encourages irrational or unacceptable behavior, and can be an insight to one's motives as this generates from both the conscious and sub-conscious mind. The conscious mind uses this as a defense mechanism to protect itself from mockery and embarrassment. The sub-conscious mind uses this as a shield from evoking any limiting beliefs or guilt in ones self. It can also just be as simple as a result of us not knowing ourselves as well as we think.


I see people attempt to rationalize their actions and even their own personal thoughts, to such an extent that they can cause a feud... from simply over-analyzing themselves. So, what is the real difference between an explanation, an excuse... and a rationalization? Just ask yourself, which one feels better? There may actually be no difference between them. It is more the intention behind it, and the answer lies in how you truly feel afterwards.


When we make a mistake, it is so tempting to take the easy street and blame someone else. This leads to people not properly dealing with a proper solution to their wrong behaviors, which then causes more problems. But, sometimes... without realizing it, we make excuses for our faults, and claim what is not real. A common rationalization I hear is from students, claiming they didn't do well in a test as a result of the teacher not liking them. When in fact, they had not properly prepared or studied for the test. The danger of rationalization, is the sub-conscious mind makes it OK to fail the test for this reason, and the study and hard work necessary gets left behind.


How often do you rationalize yours or another's behavior to maintain social cohesion? How often does it produce a good long-term result?


Samantha K

What we take for granted...

On Sunday we all jumped on the family bandwagon to support Autism in the Walk for Awareness. It was a great day and it was so inspiring to see how many people came out to show their support. It sometimes restores your faith in the power of humanity, which never goes unappreciated.

 I never really understood, in fact, I never knew what Autism was until members of my family were diagnosed. My gorgeous cousins are great kids, with the most supportive, strong and dedicated parents and family. They stop at nothing to ensure their children are given the best chance, the best opportunities in life. They have formed an undying love that breaches the norms of society, and are suitably equipped to look past it and be whole-heartedly grateful for their blessings in life.

This inspired me.

At the same time, I felt a little shameful. Sometimes, it is not until we see the strength in the underdog that we value our own.

When referring to her boys, my Aunty Lisa said to me “They have both taught us many valuable lessons. They have taught us to ignore the ignorant people. They have taught us patience and understanding. They have taught us Autism isn't a curse, it's a lesson in life we have to learn to accept. There is no cure for Autism but me and dad will spend the rest of our life doing what ever we can to support them both .We love our boys.”

If that doesn’t inspire you… read it again.

It makes me appreciate everything I am blessed with in life. It helps me want to continue to be a better person each day. It makes me grateful to have these sorts of people in my life.

I have said it before, and I will say it again. Never underestimate who you might learn from and take the most out of a life changing opportunity that might present itself from the most unlikely source. Don’t discount whom you might learn from, never deny yourself the opportunity.

Samantha K