Hypocrisy: The Avoidable Trait

I have been observing my behavior as well as the behavior of others around me. The experience gained helps me identify traits individuals possess and demonstrate. Hypocracy is one such trait, though relatively less observed. I feel it is because hypocracy requires skills for manipulation and street smartness. That irritates me more. I collated some wisdom on the topic, and here it is for you to scan through.

Hypocrisy is a behavioral trait where one's actions contradict their stated beliefs or values. It's often born out of a desire to maintain a favorable image, gain approval, or avoid consequences. While it may provide short-term benefits, it usually leads to long-term damage in personal relationships, professional credibility, and societal trust.

In family settings, hypocrisy can create confusion and resentment, undermining the values and unity within the home. In the workplace, it erodes trust and morale, affecting teamwork and productivity. In society, it fuels cynicism and alienation, while in politics, it weakens democratic institutions and public trust.

Avoiding hypocrisy involves practicing consistency, transparency, and accountability. By aligning actions with stated values and being honest about one's shortcomings, individuals can build stronger, more authentic relationships and contribute positively to their communities.

I took help to develop a set of questions for us to look within and undertake self appraisal. It may help us be more self-aware. 

Ask these questions to yourself and look for answers on a five point scale where 1 is never and 5 is always. Higher your score greater is the need for you to change.

I would request you to rate my behavior and give me a total score, which will help me improve.

Here is the self appraisal tool.

Family Setting

1. Do I enforce rules on family members that I don’t follow myself?

2. Do I say one thing but do another, creating confusion?

3. Do I avoid taking responsibility and blame others instead?

4. Do I use guilt or emotional manipulation to get my way?

5. Am I selectively honest about certain things while withholding other information?

6. Do I criticize others for behaviors I engage in myself?

7. Do I refuse to acknowledge my faults or mistakes?

Workplace Setting

1. Do I take credit for others' work but deflect blame for mistakes?

2. Am I friendly to colleagues' faces but speak negatively about them behind their backs?

3. Do I demand punctuality and commitment from others while slacking off myself?

Societal Setting

1. Do I preach moral high ground but not practice it myself?

2. Do I express strong opinions on some issues but ignore others based on convenience?

3. Do I expect high standards from community members but not apply the same standards to myself?

4. Do I say different things to different audiences to fit my needs?

5. Do I change my stance on policies to suit public opinion or personal gain?

6. Do I blame others for problems I contribute to or do nothing about?

Observations About Others' Reactions

1. Do people seem frustrated or angry with me often?

2. Have I noticed a loss of trust from family, friends, or colleagues?

3. Do people seem confused or conflicted when dealing with me?

4. Do others tend to avoid me or create distance in social settings?

5. Have people expressed moral outrage or confronted me about my behavior?

Reflecting on these answers can help you gain deeper insights into both your own behavior and how it impacts others.