Many people have reacted to the recent State of the Nation Address with fear, suspicion, pessimism and hopelessness.
As South Africans, it is our democratic right and civil duty to question the performance of government. The government cannot exist without the people, and civil debate (through the media) is healthy in creating an accountable government and vibrant democracy.
However, the collective psychology of a nation can also have a significant impact on the performance of a country and its democracy. This column has spoken before of how thoughts lead to feelings, which in turn lead to behaviour.
As much as the government has its role to play in creating a better South Africa, we as South Africans need to be cautious of the effect of our own thoughts, feelings and behaviours to bettering or destroying our country.
Too many South Africans are pessimistic about the future of our country. These thoughts lead to fear and mistrust, which breed negative behaviours.
These negative behaviours (disobeying the law, racism, littering, not standing for our national anthem, disregarding our national flag and sports teams) do more damage to our country than the government. If you do love this country, challenge and debate with government, but make sure that you are also doing your share to make this country work.
Make sure your negative and positive thoughts lead to pro-South Africa behaviour.
