Only Lunatics Believe In Themselves
“Shall I tell you where the men are who believe most in themselves? I can tell you. I know of men who believe in themselves more colossally than Napoleon or Caesar. I know where flames the fixed star of certainty and success. I can guide you to the thrones of the Super-men. The men who really believe in themselves are all in lunatic asylums” (Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton, 2001, p9).
Self-esteem is a trap. Those who think highly of themselves can’t take any risks.
If I believe myself to be something, then any action I take opens me up to be less than something. But if I’m humble, then any action I take is an opportunity to grow.
There are some high achievers who motivate themselves with self esteem. But their growth feels like climbing up a cell tower. Every step increases the possibility of falling. By thinking highly of yourself, every new step threatens your ability to sustain that high position.
It’s much better to be a humble high achiever. Their growth feels like hiking through the mountains. Every step increases your elevation from a stable position. By being humble, every new step simply takes you farther along the path.
Believing in yourself won’t last. Every person knows they aren’t the center of the universe, and living a lie eventually makes you crazy. Self-esteem doesn’t open you up to opportunity—it makes you afraid to act on opportunity.
What do you think?
Joseph