Of course, the brain is a complex organism, still a mystery to modern scientists, but the hidden mechanism I’m talking about is something that has been culturally implanted by daily interactions with fellow human beings. These are socially driven filters that lead us to make assumptions, based solely on what we observe through words, phrasing and body language.

Although I have a minimal biography and picture, you the reader may infer my gender, race and age. This is an intuitive sorting mechanism. In your mind, there is a precedent for how someone fitting my stereotype behaves and responds, which may guide your dealings with me. You may talk down to me or be authoritative. You may enter survival of the fittest mode, protecting threatened personal space. You will do all of this before I have even uttered "Hello!"

I will admit that I am guilty of this behavior. I remember walking into the office on my first day at work. It was a close knit unit who had worked together for almost 15 years. From previous experiences, I thought I was entering a potential minefield. I was the intruder; I assumed they would be apprehensive about a new member joining the group and unyielding. Instead, they were welcoming and open. They did not feel threatened. They looked forward to having a new perspective and a “young� brain around to help keep on top of things.

These subconscious filters cannot be switched off like a light bulb. They are engrained into our psyches. However, all is not lost. As a whole, we should become aware of these filters and in doing so, look beyond the stereotype and find the individual. If we do not, we are limiting our experiences and blinding ourselves from the endless possibilities life presents to us.