It's time for this week's Viking quote, the forty third in my series. Despite these phrases being over a thousand years old I believe they can still offer value in modern society and so I contemplate them and how they may be able to fit into my life. original im src
Let no man glory in the greatness of his mind, but rather keep watch o'er his wits. Cautious and silent let him enter a dwelling; to the heedful comes seldom harm, for none can find a more faithful friend than the wealth of mother wit. - Hávamál
I wanted to post about a more complex quote this week, and chose this one. It'll mean different things to each of us I guess but to me it suggests that arrogance, ego, hubris, braggadocio should be tempered [eliminated is better] as people will respond more favourably and a person will achieve more or be more readily accepted, followed, trusted, respected...or whatever the appropriate thing is for each individual circumstance.
I think, generally speaking, that hubris is a prevalent personality trait these days. It means, excessive pride or self-confidence, and whilst feeling pride in oneself or actions, attitudes and results is warranted and some self-confidence can be very positive, boasting, is rarely going to endear a person to others; but can easily repel them.
I'm no expert, and certainly haven't researched the situation, however I believe a persons need/desire to brag, boast and talk overmuch about themselves or achievements comes from a lack of self-esteem; like, the person needs the validation of others because they don't feel worthy within themselves. This is probably not always the case, but in my experiences it often is. It's sad I guess, especially considering that everything one needs to feel self-value and worth resides within.
Maybe this is why so many people present themselves on social media in the way they do, seeking those likes they receive from random people who don't know the real person at all. Validation.
Validation from random people they don't even know. It seems very strange...and they'll often do or say anything to get it fooling themselves that those endorsements actually mean something, which they generally do not.
It's not just a social media thing of course as it happens in social and sporting groups, the military, the workplace, within families and, of course, here on Hive.
The need for validation, in my opinion, can also drive people to surround themselves with various material things they feel support and influence the way others see them; again, designed to provide them the feeling they've increased their self-esteem. The right phone, clothing, vehicle, makeup, shoes, watch, suburb, coffee shop, whatever it is...People turn to these things to support their self-esteem and self-worth and marketing companies and corporations prey upon it. But here's the problem...it's a fleeting moment.
Getting the latest thing is great, the feeling of having it I mean. But what happens in a few months when the new model comes out? The feeling one gained spirals downwards because the person doesn't have it. If lack of funds prevent the purchase? Hmm...Self-esteem deflates, disappointment sets in. It's cyclic. This raises other issues as well including consumerism, credit debt, depression and environmental impact to name a few.
I believe a person needs to find validation, self-worth, esteem and value inwardly. It may be a little more difficult to do so, however it's a more satisfying and lasting feeling. Being dependant on others for that is not sustainable, or healthy.
If a person can find the feeling of self-worth and value within themselves I believe it will shine outwardly like the sun.
If they cannot do so, no amount of external validation, braggadocio, arrogance and hubris will fill the dark and empty void that ultimately exists within the person; indeed, unhappiness, sorrow and a feeling of insignificance that way lies.
The quote suggests a person should possess a degree of humility; feel pride in oneself for sure, but also the confidence to know that one doesn't need to sell-oneself to others for validation. Letting one's actions speak the loudest is the best course of action in my opinion.
There is a popular saying that goes, pride comes before the fall and it is, indeed, so often the case. I believe this Viking quote suggests similar, indicating one should feel content and comfortable within one's own skin rather than needing external validation to support a feeling of self-worth which is tenuous at best.
I'm not against a person celebrating their success, in fact, doing so is critical as allowing oneself to acknowledge the hard work, effort, ownership, responsibility, persistence, discipline and consistency that went into an achievement is a way to motivate one for the next. Rubbing it in people's faces though, especially those who haven't made the achievement or are otherwise worse off, isn't a very positive personality trait or activity. I also believe a person doesn't need to acquire various accoutrements in a bid for validation. Thinking one does or engaging in that kind of behaviour will not pay off and is fraught with danger; being arrogant and boastful is also ugly and repellant.
They say, to love others one must first love oneself and I agree. Similarly, one must find value and worth inwardly prior to others being able to do so. Add in some kindness, humility and a few other things and one is on the way towards better feelings, better relationships and a better life. Lastly, the best way to increase our own self-esteem is to increase someone else's. It's not automatic, but those behaviours done often will all add up and the result is miraculous.
A thousand years ago Vikings travelled far and wide, even to America, and along the way gained understanding and wisdom. They are known for their brutality, but they were much more than brutal invaders; the perception is changing as more is understood about the Viking people and the wisdom they gained. I think this quote is a great example of such wisdom.
In the comments below, please feel free to disagree with my interpretation and add your own if you like, tell a story around this quote or general topic or simply react to it and let me know what you think, how you see it, how it relates to you or someone you know.
Skol.
Design and create your ideal life, don't live it by default - Tomorrow isn't promised so be humble and kind
