Denial or delusion?
Before we get into that, let’s understand them.
Delusion is choosing to believe a false pretense, even when it contradicts reality. Denial, on the other hand, is more subtle; it is simply not accepting facts; an escape from reality, if you must.
So, what is it? To be honest, I have often caught myself thinking, “Despite evidence to the contrary, I am going to believe what feels easier.” In psychology, this is called a “Defence mechanism.” Humans tend to use it unconsciously when we face trauma, hurt, guilt, embarrassment, or simply remnants from the past. Frankly, I still practice it today, and I have no shame in admitting that.
However, do I expect everything to be sunshine and rainbows if I succeed in pretending long enough; Absolutely not. I am comfortable doing it because I now understand why I do it. Sometimes, when things get hard, we run, hide, or ignore and that’s okay. I am all for it, but if that is all you do, we might have a problem.
It doesn’t take much time to transition from temporary escape to a permanent mindset; when we start building situations that provide ease and safety but gets harder to break with time.
So, my question is: What would you rather choose? Knowing the reality and choosing to ignore it, or creating a version where the truth doesn’t exist?
I guess there is no correct answer. Sometimes, the mind that protects also limits. But there is always a choice, even subconsciously, and what we do today will always have consequences tomorrow. There is no hero or villain, there is only you, and the reality you choose to live in.
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