Cognitive Dissonance: Why We Feel Torn Inside

May 02, 2025 Komal Das

Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort felt when conflicting beliefs or actions clash, creating inner tension

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For example, you know smoking is harmful, but you still smoke. This conflict between what you know and what you do is cognitive dissonance

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We experience cognitive dissonance in many aspects of daily life, like buying things we don't need or justifying actions we know aren’t quite right

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The brain dislikes discomfort and resolves it by changing beliefs, justifying actions, or ignoring the conflict to restore peace

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Cognitive dissonance is a sign that something in our lives isn’t fully aligned. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our beliefs and actions

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Recognizing this tension helps us grow. It’s a moment where we can choose to bring our actions and values into alignment

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Cognitive dissonance can be resolved by changing behavior or beliefs, aiming to reduce discomfort and achieve self-alignment

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Being aware of cognitive dissonance is empowering. It helps us make more intentional decisions, guiding us to live in a way that reflects who we truly are

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