A close connection exists between the degree of understanding we have of the influence of pride on behavior and the efforts to overcome the problem. Knowing how pride shows itself and its cost are beneficial in overcoming the habit. When we determine that the cost of pride is greater than the benefits the motivation to overcome the habit is present.
The external effects of pride:neglect,vanity, boasting, lying and the like are the negatives; seeking support and recognition, overcoming a sense of inferiority and gaining confidence are all goods that may be achieved by other means.
A feeling of inferiority is not always a bad thing. Alfred Alder the Austrian psychiatrist stressed that the reason for the many success stories in life comes from a feeling of inferiority, it's a great motivator. Pride comes from little understanding of the self; many misunderstand the ideal self for the real self.
Psychology does present us with ways to understand the self. First, in counseling or psychological testing. Secondly, new activities, interests, and initiating new encounters with others. Thomas Aquinas is quoted as saying beware of the person with one book. He thinks he knows it all and is more dangerous than those who don't read. It is good to read within your area of interest but also to approach other special areas to realize that our interests are narrow. Thirdly, we need the time for introspection. What have today's incidents, encounters and available time taught us? What knowledge have we added to what we know?
Confession is an opportunity to see ourselves as we are objectively.We gaze upon ourselves in the presence of God but also at the same time with the mercy and love of God.
J. Taylor the Anglican Bishop said that humility is not something easily understood outside of Christianity. Knowing oneself contains what is meant by humility. It is the cure for pride and the results of knowing oneself. However, it is not a passive or unconditional lowering ourselves by duress.
Easily do we confuse true and false humility. False humility is influenced by the inferiority complex while true humility is not. False humility develops from a low respect for the self, a true humility comes from a healthy self-respect and courage.
True humility can accept criticism and doesn't put others down, nor blame others for what they lack. A truly humble person knows oneself in the presence of God.
