What don't you do?

“No one ’likes’ what I didn’t do! They usually only notice what you do. But I like what I don’t do just as much as what I do!”

~ emmanuel manolakakis

There’s a wealth of insight to be gained from observing what people don’t do. It can provide a window into their priorities, fears, and values. Let’s delve into what you might uncover.

What people avoid often reflects their priorities. If someone consistently avoids a particular task or topic, it might indicate that they don't find it important or that it conflicts with their values.

People tend to avoid things that make them uncomfortable or lack confidence. This can reveal their comfort zones and areas where they might feel insecure or vulnerable.

Sometimes, what people don't do can hint at their underlying motivations or concerns. For example, not taking action in a situation might indicate a fear of failure, a desire to avoid conflict or a need for approval.

In social contexts, what people don't do can be just as telling as what they do. For instance, if someone refrains from speaking up in a group, it might be due to social norms, power dynamics, or a fear of judgment.

Observing what people don't do can help you understand their boundaries. People often avoid situations or tasks that push them beyond their emotional, physical, or ethical limits.

What someone avoids might indicate areas where they have room for growth. For example, consistently avoiding public speaking might indicate an opportunity to build confidence in that area.

By actively observing what people don’t do, you can unlock a treasure trove of insights into their behaviour, decision-making processes, and the underlying factors that drive them. This observational approach is a potent tool for understanding human behaviour.

people watch what you do, but you know what not to do!