What was I thinking?!

Why did I say that?! Why did I tell Angela that I liked that shirt? Susan, Theresa, and Maggie all said it looked cute and that she should try it on. Really?! Not for a blind date! It looked like a pink flamingo had exploded on it! She’s going to look like a disaster; why didn’t I just speak up and tell her how hideous the shirt was?

Have you ever been in a situation similar to this one? Perhaps you’re out with a group of friends or colleagues and everyone else seems to view a situation differently than you do. Instead of speaking your mind about the issue, you nod your head and agree with what everyone else has said. This is a prime example of conformity and is influenced by our sometimes unconscious desire to be accepted by our peers. As social beings, we are very much influenced by the thoughts and actions of those around us, so much so that we at times “change” our views to match what others have said so that we fit in, regardless of the situation. So next time before you conform to what others have said, think twice before one of your friends walks out of the store looking like a flamingo!