Columbusing, What it is and why it’s so frustrating.

We are always intrigued when we get to know about new things, aren’t we? The newness and freshness that comes with learning new things is unparalleled. And for people who love to discover things in general, learning is always great. 

But what happens when its only you who gets to know a thing that most of the people already know? Amusing right? This term is known as Columbusing. Columbusing occurs when you find out about something for the first time, but a certain part, sect, or race in the world already follows it regularly. It could be any practice, tradition or an element that a society follows. It could be something that even your neighbors follow and you do not have any clue about it. 

The term Columbusing has been extensively used in recent times. For instance, you get to know about a tattoo or a custom that is being practiced since ages, the first thing you do is you question yourself. Why did I not know this before? Is this information really correct? Am I a fool that I didn’t know about this? All these questions start eating you up and you start doubting yourself. 

This is one of the reasons why Columbusing can be frustrating. Everyone is talking about something or the other and here you are, sitting clueless. This leads to self-loathing and isn’t good for your mental health. 

If you feel this thing gets onto you, don’t indulge in such activities. Take pride in whatever you know. Obviously learning a few new things here and there is not bad, but do not over indulge yourself into these things.