At some point in our lives I think we’ve all experienced the feeling of a deflated ego. For me it’s often been as a result of being shot down, let down, or overridden by someone, or because I was accidentally or deliberately left out of a situation, decision, or event by someone in a position of authority or influence, or by someone I had admired or trusted or respected or looked up to.
As I’ve aged I’ve learned that in most of these situations it’s usually far less about me and much more about the other person trying to justify themselves or to help themselves feel better or superior or loftier in some way.
As much as the situation has either hurt me or hit me at the time and as much as I’ve felt disrespected, discouraged, or disappointed, I’m increasingly grateful to be able to rise above things and to be present and proud.
As much as I can, I do my best to keep an open mind and an even keel. While my ego takes a beating in these moments and situations, I’ve learned to accept things and to let go and move forward. I don’t always manage this, of course, but I’m getting better at it.
Hi Gary - This is such an important piece on working through an inflated ego. I'd love to know your opinion about deflated egos, if there is such a thing. I don't elevate my own importance. My default is much lower, and it's probably (hopefully?) just as inaccurate. Trying to look at this mindfully and logically, I know I'm embracing a mindset that I'd love to change. I'd love to hear your thoughts, if you are open to sharing.
Cathy,
At some point in our lives I think we’ve all experienced the feeling of a deflated ego. For me it’s often been as a result of being shot down, let down, or overridden by someone, or because I was accidentally or deliberately left out of a situation, decision, or event by someone in a position of authority or influence, or by someone I had admired or trusted or respected or looked up to.
As I’ve aged I’ve learned that in most of these situations it’s usually far less about me and much more about the other person trying to justify themselves or to help themselves feel better or superior or loftier in some way.
As much as the situation has either hurt me or hit me at the time and as much as I’ve felt disrespected, discouraged, or disappointed, I’m increasingly grateful to be able to rise above things and to be present and proud.
As much as I can, I do my best to keep an open mind and an even keel. While my ego takes a beating in these moments and situations, I’ve learned to accept things and to let go and move forward. I don’t always manage this, of course, but I’m getting better at it.
Hi Gary - This is such an important piece on working through an inflated ego. I'd love to know your opinion about deflated egos, if there is such a thing. I don't elevate my own importance. My default is much lower, and it's probably (hopefully?) just as inaccurate. Trying to look at this mindfully and logically, I know I'm embracing a mindset that I'd love to change. I'd love to hear your thoughts, if you are open to sharing.
Thank you for the wonderful post!