Introduction
Commitment can be a scary word for some people. Whether it’s a relationship, a job, or even choosing a Netflix series to binge, the idea of being “locked in” can trigger anxiety. But how do you know if you truly have commitment issues? One fun and unconventional way to explore this is through optical illusions. These fascinating visual tricks reveal hidden aspects of our personalities based on what we see first. Take the test below and find out if you have commitment issues!
The Optical Illusion Test
Below are three optical illusions. For each one, note what you see first, and then read the interpretation to uncover what it might say about your ability to commit.
Illusion 1: The Faces or the Vase?
Look at the image below. What do you see first?
- If you see a vase first: You likely focus on the bigger picture in life and tend to avoid getting caught up in details. This could mean you are comfortable with commitment, as you see the long-term benefits rather than immediate fears.
- If you see two faces first: You may have a tendency to overanalyze and see all possible outcomes before making a decision. This mindset could make commitment feel overwhelming, as you constantly weigh pros and cons instead of jumping in with confidence.
Illusion 2: The Young Woman or the Old Woman?
This classic optical illusion presents two very different images in one. What do you see first?
- If you see the young woman first: You might have an optimistic and forward-thinking approach to relationships and commitments. However, you could also have a tendency to chase novelty and get bored easily, leading to difficulties in long-term commitments.
- If you see the old woman first: You are likely cautious and thoughtful in your decisions. While this means you may take longer to commit, when you do, it’s often with deep sincerity and longevity in mind.
Illusion 3: The Rabbit or the Duck?
This ambiguous figure can appear as both a rabbit and a duck. Which one did you see first?
- If you see a rabbit first: You may be more spontaneous and struggle with routine. This could suggest you have trouble committing because you fear being tied down and losing your freedom.
- If you see a duck first: You likely prefer stability and familiarity, making commitment easier for you. However, you might also struggle with adaptability in situations where change is necessary.
What Your Results Say About You
Now that you’ve gone through the illusions, take a moment to reflect on your answers. If most of your responses suggest hesitancy towards commitment, it might be worth exploring the reasons behind that hesitation. On the other hand, if your results indicate you are comfortable with commitment, that’s great! However, be mindful of whether you are truly committing for the right reasons or simply avoiding change.
Signs You Might Have Commitment Issues
If the optical illusion test suggested you might have trouble with commitment, here are some signs that could confirm it:
- You avoid long-term plans – Whether it’s planning a trip months in advance or discussing a future together, you feel uneasy when thinking too far ahead.
- You fear routine – Commitment often involves structure, and if that makes you uncomfortable, it could be a sign of commitment issues.
- You look for an escape route – Do you always keep an option open, just in case? This could be in relationships, jobs, or even friendships.
- You feel suffocated easily – The idea of being “stuck” in anything, even a positive situation, can cause stress and anxiety.
- You struggle with trust – If past experiences have made you wary of fully trusting someone or something, this could lead to commitment fears.
How to Overcome Commitment Issues
If you recognize some of these signs in yourself, don’t worry. Commitment issues are common, and they don’t mean you’re doomed to a life of uncertainty. Here are some ways to work through them:
1. Understand the Root Cause
Commitment fears often stem from past experiences, whether childhood patterns, previous relationships, or personal insecurities. Take time to reflect on what might be causing your hesitation.
2. Take Small Steps
Instead of overwhelming yourself with huge commitments, start small. Say yes to small plans, make short-term goals, and gradually build trust in commitment.
3. Communicate Your Feelings
If your commitment fears are affecting a relationship, be honest about them. Open conversations can help your partner understand your mindset and support you as you work through it.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Often, commitment issues arise from negative beliefs—like thinking you’ll lose your independence or get hurt. Challenge these thoughts with rational counterarguments.
5. Seek Professional Guidance
If commitment issues are significantly impacting your life, a therapist can help you understand and overcome them. Therapy can provide tools to reframe your perspective on commitment in a healthy way.
Optical illusions may not be a definitive psychological test, but they can be a fun way to reflect on your subconscious tendencies. Whether you discovered you have commitment issues or not, the key takeaway is to be self-aware and proactive about your emotional well-being. If commitment feels scary, take things step by step. And if you’re already great at commitment, use that strength wisely to build meaningful connections in life. Either way, awareness is the first step toward growth!
So, did this test reveal anything surprising about you? Share your thoughts and see what your friends discover as well!