Having everything in life is a common human experience, yet we still feel a sense of lack. This universal struggle, often called the ‘Missing Tile Syndrome,’ reminds us that we’re not alone in our dissatisfaction and longing.
Philosophically, the ‘Missing Tile Syndrome’ is a struggle and an opportunity for growth. It challenges us to balance our ambitions with contentment, reminding us that a fulfilled life often means appreciating the whole picture, not just the gaps.
Dennis Prager coined the term “Missing tile syndrome,” the innate habit of focusing on what is missing and thus robbing ourselves of happiness.
Imagine looking at a beautiful sunset, but your attention is drawn to a single cloud blocking the view. This is the essence of the ‘Missing Tile Syndrome ‘. A slight imperfection can overshadow the beauty of the whole, leaving us dissatisfied.
I suffered this syndrome while looking at Michelangelo’s famous Fresco ceiling painting, The Last Judgment, at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. I was intrigued by a small black patch on one side of the painting, which captured my attention, straining to decipher it.
Like ‘the missing tiles,’ we slip things that cannot be replaced or achieved. Our attitude towards replacing the missing tiles should be altered, accepting the imperfections.
“We were born to be Real and not Perfect.”
The missing tile syndrome is ubiquitous and exposes our mind’s weird tendencies in various ways.
*Because I am fat and bulky, I only see the young boy’s six-packs, bulging biceps and tucked-in tummy. Why shouldn’t I draw pleasure in seeing someone who can’t tie shoelaces because of his pot belly?
*Because someone’s face is loaded with pimples, she sees only the ramp models with plastic and manicured faces . . .
We jeopardise cheerfulness by focusing on things to which we are inferior. Gratefulness brings joy, and constant complaining leads to Grief.
The ‘Negative Bias Syndrome’ is like the ‘Missing Tile Syndrome’ sibling, born from the same parents: Attitude and Perception. It’s the tendency to focus on what we lack rather than what we already have. This constant comparison to others and the desire for what they possess can lead to dissatisfaction.
Negative bias syndrome is fostered by constant comparison with others and seeing things we don’t possess. Others’ cheerfulness becomes our biggest curse, making us miserable.
Here are five practical ways to overcome the ‘Missing Tile Syndrome’ and shift towards a more content and rewarding mindset.
* Count your blessings —
In solitude, consider your belongings and commodities—the sensitive relationships and meaningful friendships you have created. Try to analyse your intentions—do you need more, or are you content with what you have?
*Get out of the competitive urge —
Life is a competition. Our perceptions and emotional insights allow competition to intrude on our lives. Will we be comfortable if our outfits and personas are constantly judged during social gatherings? It is scratchy, and we will ignore the invitation because of this superfluous burden. Life isn’t about scaling Everest or cracking IIT exams—it is about you, your ‘self’, and your soul’s meaning. People compete to fill in the missing tile space.
*You are the best —
You are exceptional and blessed with the best and most premium genetic coding. God has made you different and designed everything specifically for you.
*Nurture your passions —
The world’s best artists have emerged from rags and oblivion. They were recognised for their passion and immense talent. Passions differentiate one from another, filling one’s spaces with empty slots.
* Be affirmative about your choices —
Nurture your choices without interfering with monetary and physical desires. Try to conquer the missing tile syndrome expediently. Harmony between the mind and heart can accomplish this, providing a sensible purpose. Choices shouldn’t be affected or influenced by any person or circumstance.
Next time you see a neighbour’s newly painted house, don’t get depressed. You will have it painted after the rain.
We get so much in our lives, but the irony is that we count only that which we can’t achieve.
“Having more doesn’t keep you from wanting more. If you always want more – to be richer, more beautiful, more well known, YOU ARE MISSING THE LARGER PICTURE”.
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The blog “Five ways to fight the Missing Tile Syndrome.. The negative notion” ,undoubtedly, is like a thorn in a bouquet of roses. You may feel a prick of it or if lucky enough you may miss its presence.. Similarly, those who are in a habit of finding faults in other’s persona, a trait of missing tile syndrome erupts to the surface. Despite resorting to appreciation of its elegance, one trys to find and locate a missing tile on the length and breadth of a ceiling. It can be overlooked also. Those who carry s missing tile syndrome in their mind set, advertently will try to pose to point out the mistake. Five steps illustrated to over come a missing tile syndrome are overtly genuine and apt. One should look for the larger canvass, rather than resorting to criticism or heading to corner one’s mistake to public.. Too good Dr Anuj..
I love the first two lines of your comments. Yes, it is like a thorn in a bouquet of roses. The title intrigued me the moment I read about this syndrome. Indeed there is so much personification about it in our lives. We can get away with the bunch of critics around us — but how can we get away from the negativity we nurture inside us. The missing tile should be replaced if possible, but there should be much peace because of the beauty surrounding the fault.
Thanks a lot, bro.
Missing tile syndrome…The title itself is so interesting. Yes, true indeed, many among us suffer from it and your write up will be a mirror for them. Excellent write Sir. Keep writing your thoughts Sir, love to read you.
Thank you so much for the compliments, Mr Bhattacharya. It is high time people start understanding the blessings and try to forget their weaknesses. Missing tile syndrome plays such an imporatnt part in our lives.
regards.
Thoroughly impressed.
Thanks a lot dear. I would appreciate if you post your point of view as well on the subject. You are such an evolved person.
regards.