We take ourselves too seriously in life. We get so preoccupied and sometimes obsessed with the ‘I’ factor in everything we do that we lose perspective. We may not realise it, but if we are not careful, our paradigm shifts to constantly wanting things and attention.

It comes from our sense of self-importance; constantly seeking attention and having a need to be recognised and acknowledged for everything we do for others around us.

It comes from our ego. We live believing we were responsible for having done and created so many things, that we start putting ourselves at the centre of achievements.

It comes when we stop becoming a good listener. We are so full of our own achievements and experiences that we stop giving importance to the stories others have to share.

It comes from becoming over-sensitive. We start hurting easily and even the smallest criticism, sometimes said even in jest becomes a big issue.

It comes from becoming impatient and intolerant. We start behaving sharply if others don’t align to our way of doing things. We are quick to display anger but not as quick to give appreciation.

It comes from always having expectations that our needs are more important and need to be met at any cost. We start taking people for granted.

It comes from asserting our power and constantly being aware of our position drawing strength from the approval and submission of others.

It comes from making others feel small and constantly reminding them in subtle ways that they are not good enough to match up to our standards.

It comes from wanting recognition even when we give and do things for others.

It comes from becoming arrogant in prosperity, taking credit for things going well; it comes from losing our balance when things go radically wrong, assigning blame to others for our plight.

Our ego and self-importance cloud our judgement and cast a shadow on our relationships. More importantly they eclipse the true power of love, joy and goodness to flow through from within, suffocating us internally even as we portray success externally.

The sun is powerful because it doesn’t need to bask in its own light; a tree doesn’t eat its own fruits; the mighty ocean doesn’t drink its own water. Constantly giving with love, for the welfare of all is what makes us truly powerful and beautiful.

There are many issues that require our serious consideration, but the one thing we shouldn’t be serious about is taking ourselves too seriously in life.