Self-reflection plays an important role in one’s personal growth. It is presumed to be an effective way of analyzing one’s self that is fundamental in learning more about the importance of human nature. Socrates, a famous philosopher, said that knowing thyself is the path to true intelligence. But is there a right and a wrong way of doing such reflection?

New research has shown that thinking too much often results in defective decision making. The more people work under pressure, the higher the risk of depression. Thus, the researchers suggested that people should adapt illeism, the act of referring to oneself in the third person instead of first-person.

Ethan Kross, a psychologist, found out that the way people do inner monologues has an effect on their success in life. If a person talks to himself using the pronoun “I”, that person is more likely to perform poorly. On the other hand, addressing oneself in the third person has more chances of accomplishing tasks.

For instance, adopting a third-person point of view while arguing with someone might help you understand the root of the problem. If you are planning to change your job, considering the third-person perspective could help you weigh up the advantages and the risks of the decision more carefully.

Indeed, humans are capable of making wise decisions. In case you are feeling indecisive, talk to yourself in the third-person and you might get surprised by the result.