Mind Over Matter...Or Matter Over Mind?

The human brain is without a doubt the most complex organ in the human body. There is so much about the structure and functionality of the brain that is still left undiscovered or unresolved. However, scientists are slowly deciphering the vast mysteries of the brain, as well as uncovering new aspects of our mind that were previously unknown. Nevertheless, despite the intricate, internal complexities of the human mind, even the most minute external influence can and will effect how the brain functions.

I agree that the appearance of others or even yourself can have an impact on the functionality of the brain. We as humans are visual beings, ergo responding to external stimuli is merely human nature. The most prominent example of this would be physical appearance and dress, as it is something most of us are guaranteed to see at some point during the day. For example, dressing better gives off a subconscious aura of confidence, regardless of how a person is actually feeling. 

I have experienced this mind game firsthand. In the past, I did not care much for my appearance, nor was I motivated to dress well. Needless to say, I was severely lacking in confidence of my own abilities. This did not help neither my self-esteem nor my appearance. However, the day before a big exam I was apprehensive about, I told myself that I would dress well and make myself feel as confident as possible. Going into the exam I felt more confident in my abilities, which in turn resulted in my grade on that exam being one of the highest I had gotten in that class.

The big question now is...why? Aside from human nature, why do we put so much emphasis on our external surroundings? There are several different aspects of this answer, but the part I will be focusing on is how it relates directly to ourselves. We are constantly comparing ourselves with others, whether we realize it or not. This impacts how we view not only ourselves, but also the people around us. For example, one person is dressed in sweatpants and a hoodie, and the other is dressed in  a business suit. How do you think they will perceive each other in relation to themselves? It is highly likely that one might feel inferior or superior to the other, even if it is subconscious. While it is indeed a shallow way to perceive someone, it is an excruciatingly common way that people are judged, and one that will unfortunately only become more prominent in the future.

This is the type of influence that the external environment has on the human brain. While the structure of the human mind is undoubtedly complicated, its impulsiveness is astoundingly simple to comprehend.