I FEEL IMPORTANT – Is it Arrogance or my Self-respect?

Feeling important is a powerful emotion that can catalyse personal growth and self-awareness. It often arises from recognition, value, or the understanding that one’s actions have an impact. Recognizing one’s intrinsic worth, understanding one’s strengths, and acknowledging one’s contributions are pivotal steps in this journey.

However, feeling important can stem from either arrogance or self-respect, depending on the underlying mindset and behaviour. Understanding the subtle yet significant differences between the two is essential, as they can significantly impact how we perceive ourselves and others.

 Self-respect is a force that stems from acknowledging your values, unique contributions, and qualities and treating yourself with dignity. It’s about feeling a healthy and appropriate sense of self-worth, free from complexes and stigma. This empowering feeling can put you in the driver’s seat of your life, making you feel more in control and capable. It’s a feeling that empowers you to take charge of your life and steer it in the direction you desire.

Arrogance, on the other hand, is a destructive force that can poison the mind. It fosters a sense of superiority, making the individual feel more important or better than others. An inflated ego leads to a sense of power and dismissiveness toward fellow men, creating a hostile atmosphere. This is a destructive force that not only harms the individual but also their relationships with others.

The crucial distinction between self-respect and arrogance lies in whether the sense of importance is balanced with humility and respect for others or veers into a sense of superiority. This distinction is critical to understanding the impact of these feelings on our relationships and personal growth.

We should all realise that each of us is gifted in a unique and significant way, and it’s our privilege and adventure to discover the meaning of our lives. We must be faithful to what exists within ourselves because we all deserve the most love, affection and recognition. This journey of self-discovery should inspire and motivate us to embrace our uniqueness and strive for personal growth.

As you read this, take a moment to reflect on your behaviours and attitudes. Are you acting out of self-respect or arrogance? How are these feelings impacting your personal growth and relationships? Remember, as MICHELLE OBAMA correctly said – “Your success will be determined by your confidence and fortitude.” Engaging in this self-reflection can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and foster personal growth.

I was invited to a book launch. On reaching the venue, I was not appropriately greeted and was made to sit in the back row. The organiser’s callous behaviour jolted my self-respect, and I left the event. But going out without meeting the organiser and throwing my weight around was my arrogance. Sometimes, it is frustrating or hurtful when people don’t give you the importance you deserve.

 It’s natural to want to be valued by others, but it’s also important to understand that their recognition doesn’t define your worth.

Some people suffer from an inflated sense of self-importance or self-esteem, called ‘Narcissistic Personality Disorder.’ The person suffers from an excessive need for adoration, entitlement, and hypersensitivity to criticism. They want the best, believe they can do everything, are always right, and live with the notion that everyone loves them.

Surviving in a world simmering with all kinds of creepy-crawly personalities, it becomes essential and challenging to understand whether the importance rendered to you is genuine and sincere or whether there is an ulterior motive.

People massaging your ego and nurturing your arrogance with sugar-coated adoration and praise are like pests and need to be taken care of in time –

 Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek clarity if something or someone feels off. It’s of utmost importance to define boundaries and understand the impending insult. Some patterns falter with time and nosedive once the motives are accomplished. Genuine importance is consistent in all viable relationships.

Sincere people –

* Prioritize the relationship, safeguard the friend’s self-respect and don’t falter in making necessary sacrifices when things aren’t smooth.

* Engage in meaningful conversation and listen attentively.

* Respect your boundaries while recognising and appreciating your efforts and contributions.

*Have honesty and transparency when dealing with mutual benefits.

 You can’t control others’ behaviour, but you can control your reaction and perception and surround yourself with those who appreciate you sincerely. To sustain the sanctity of your self-respect with undermined arrogance, use people’s experiences as opportunities to be stronger, more resilient, and self-reliant.

Society is swarming with characters who gaslight to gain more power, compelling the victim to question and detest his identity and self-respect.

 “The most important person to give you importance is yourself.”

Behold your self-respect, and let your soul be arrogant about what a fine, adorable, accomplished person you are.

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