03/09/2025
Ever heard the phrase, “Once bitten, twice shy”? That’s generalization in action. It’s our mind’s way of keeping us safe, but sometimes, it holds us back.
Take this example—a cat burns its tongue on hot milk once. From then on, it avoids anything that looks like white liquid, even if it’s cold. We do the same in life.
• One tough presentation? “I’m terrible at public speaking.”
• One mistake at work? “I always mess things up.”
• One social slip-up? “People must think I’m awkward.”
But one bad experience doesn’t mean all future ones will be the same. Next time you catch yourself making sweeping conclusions, pause and ask:
✔️ Is this always true?
✔️ What’s the real evidence?
✔️ Would I say this to a friend?
Breaking free from generalization helps us see life as it really is—full of opportunities to grow.