When you search the term ‘ego’ on Google, you will invariably come to the conclusion that the dictionary meaning does no justice to the dynamic character flaw that it can be. Think about it–have you ever encountered a life situation where being egotistical has saved you? Made the situation better? Yet, as a personality trait, it is not that uncommon. Then how does that work?
Where does ego stem from?
In that aspect, egos are very non-conforming–they can come from anywhere. Perhaps you have grown up with wealth, or you have managed to build a great portfolio, the fact that you’re more athletic etc etc–the reasons for having a high-headed attitude are multiple. However, the whole thing is internally orchestrated. You’ve been told that a certain part of your personality/work is worth being appreciated which has translated into a form of conditioning that makes you certain that it won’t change. At least not in the foreseeable future. Hence, you’re being slightly or maybe majorly egotistical about it. Cocky, in-your-face, overbearing are other more everyday synonyms.
Where does it manifest?
When you’re dealing with someone who’s super egotistical, you’ll notice it in the small things. Like dealing with people who are not the same way as you–whichever metric you choose to insert here. There will be an air in the way they speak–tendencies of being flashy, overcompensating, overbearing, condescending etc.
The truth about egos
The thing with this rationale which is used to justify egos, is that it is essentially taking things for granted. At any point, the reason behind your ego can be taken away/broken. If you’re rich, you might have to deal with acute poverty; if you’re being snarky about your cushy job, the company might shut down tomorrow; you’re gorgeous, god forbid something happens to that—you know how ghamand works! There’s no assurance of what is to come. Essentially, it’s great to be confident, it’s not to be all up in your ego.
So then the question we’d like to ask these individuals, is that..
(*insert sarcasm here* )
a) Where does it all come from?
b) Can we send you a list of all the synonyms of the word ‘empathy’?
c) Does a giant ego mean a tiny XYZ (Insert your preference)?
d) How are you bettering the world here?
e) Do people actually get impressed with this behaviour?
f) How long can you go without saying something flattering about yourself? We can have a timer!
PICTURE COURTESY: Dil Dhadakne Do, Giphy
