The damaging effects of sarcasm
By Todd Smith
Little Things Matter
As I went about my normal routines the past few weeks, I listened closely for some attention-grabbing examples of sarcasm to include in today's lesson. I was dismayed at the amount of sarcasm I heard.
When I began to intentionally evaluate the damaging effects of sarcasm, I was utterly shocked at how inappropriate, culturally offensive, and downright cruel most of the sarcastic, off-the-cuff remarks turned out to be. A few decades ago, they were called cut-lows—what a fitting label.
This experience only reinforced my belief that sarcasm doesn't belong in our interactions with one another.
Sarcasm Hurts and Offends
Though it's often camouflaged as humor, sarcasm is really just a convenient way for people to express hurt feelings, criticize others, or disapprove of some action without actually coming out and saying what's on their minds.
Television sitcoms are loaded with sarcastic remarks and, of course, the viewers laugh at the embarrassment the recipient shows. Don't be fooled that these are merely clever sayings from quick-witted individuals. Television writers think they are entertaining the audience, but they are really setting an example for viewers to follow. Our children grow up believing this is socially acceptable.
These sharp, cutting remarks are given with the intent to wound or embarrass. Sarcasm is hurtful to others. At the very least, it's got tremendous potential to be misunderstood since there is always a 'hidden message' involved. I urge you to consider today whether it's worth risking alienating another person in the interest of getting a laugh.
When you resort to sarcasm to get a point across in a disguised manner, it demonstrates a lack of conviction and courage to say what you really mean. Although an occasional sarcastic remark may seem harmless, remember that people judge your character every day by what you say as well as how you act. The collective result of those judgments is your reputation.
Break the Habit
My challenge to you is this, and I don't extend it lightly: will you commit to eliminating sarcasm altogether, in all areas of your life? At home, with friends, at school, at work, and everywhere in between?
I won't sugarcoat it; sarcastic speech is a very difficult habit to break once it has become a part of your communication style. And it's especially tough if the people around you thrive on the temptation of 'one-upping' each other when it comes to sarcastic comments. The truth is sarcasm breeds sarcasm. It's just that simple.
With that said, please don't let this intimidate you or stop you from trying! Here are a few ideas to help you break free from the bad habit of sarcasm:
- Keep a mental or written list of the reactions and consequences you notice when those around you are the target of sarcasm. This awareness alone will be a powerful motivator to change your own behavior.
- Think before you speak. Considering how your words will be received is a very effective way to monitor your speech.
- Enlist a trusted friend or partner who is willing to enter a sarcasm-free zone with you. Agree that you will hold each other accountable when you hear the other person using sarcasm.
I hope you will seriously consider my challenge to you. You can do it, and your reputation will benefit greatly. What do you say?
Eliminating sarcasm may just be one of the most rewarding personal development steps you'll ever take because it forces you to better express who you really are and what is important to you.
About the Author: Todd Smith is a successful entrepreneur of 29 years and founder of Little Things Matter. To receive Todd's daily lessons, subscribe here. All Todd's lessons are also available on iTunes as downloadable podcasts. (Todd's podcasts are listed in America's top 100 podcasts.)
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