Whenever we hear the word Pride, a person might instantly think about the negative sort of pride, thinking excessively of one’s self, feeling bigger than others. But it can also be positive, that is, legitimate pride. This sort of pride does not rub on others in a way that makes them feel inferior. First, let’s see when pride is wrong; then we will see when it can be right.
Harmful Pride
Pride can be harmful when it comes to inordinate self-esteem, an unreasonable feeling of superiority as to one’s talents, beauty, wealth, education, rank, and so on. It may manifest itself in disdainful behaviour, boasting, insolence, or arrogance. Thinking too much of self may lead to a failure to accept needed correction; a refusal to admit errors and to apologize, back down, and lose face; or the unreasonable taking of offence at what someone did or said. The proud may insist on always having things done their way or not at all. It is not difficult to see that such an attitude often results in personal conflicts of one kind or another.
Legitimate Pride
Sometimes pride can be a good thing, for instance, being proud of personal achievements, The delight parents might feel when their child does well in school or the pride the child feels in themselves. Such an achievement is a source of appropriate satisfaction. It is not improper to want to maintain our personal reputation, to succeed, and to be happy with such success. However, self-exaltation, haughtiness, and boasting about self are not legitimate pride.
Good pride is when you are proud of your success, who you are and everything you’ve turned out to be. But you do not compare your success and achievements with that of others. You do not underestimate other people’s abilities and hold yourself in high regard compared to the people around you.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with being proud of who you are today. It can help you have good self-esteem and confidence. Be proud of your success, no one else will do that for you. No one else can have the same joy over your success as you can. In order to reach the very top of a mountain, you had to work hard. Once you’ve reached the top, celebrate your success. That’s fine. That’s a healthy dose of pride.
