Key Difference – Self Respect vs Ego
Although self-respect and ego might seem like similar concepts, there are some differences between these two terms. The main difference is that self-respect refers to the regard that an individual has for themselves, which gives the individual confidence and creates positivity around them. On the other hand, ego refers to the importance that an individual feels towards themselves. Unlike self-respect, the ego can sometimes be destructive and also prevent the individual from developing in many aspects. Through this article, we will explore the difference between the two terms in depth.
What is Self Respect?
Self-respect refers to the regard that an individual has for themselves. It is crucial that every person has respect for themselves. Respecting oneself means that the individual values themselves for who they are. This is why it can even be interpreted as a form of acceptance for oneself. For example, if a person has no respect for themselves, they will be willing to do anything. Simultaneously, they will be in a vulnerable position where others would be able to take advantage of them. Whether a person is born poor, rich, black, white, or even belonging to a particular religion or caste system, all people have self-respect.
In the past, particularly in countries with strict caste systems, those who belonged to lower castes were not respected. They were often considered the lowest in society and were tortured, exploited, and ridiculed by others. In such a context, maintaining one’s self-respect can be very difficult because the rejection that the individual feels from the outside begins to be reflected from within itself, making the person lose their self-respect.
Self-respect should not be confused with feeling self-important. On the other hand, it refers to standing one’s ground when being ill-treated. Now let us move on to the next term ego, to comprehend the difference between the two terms.
What is Ego?
The idea of ego is used extensively in the field of psychology. However, for a comparison between ego and self-respect, let us define ego in the following manner. Ego can be understood as one’s self-importance. A clear difference between ego and self-respect is that while self-respect has a positive effect on the individual ego has a negative effect. It can create a false sense of self in the individual. For example, a person who continuously feels that they are not talented will develop an ego that reinforces this idea. In the same way, a person who develops an image of themselves as extremely talented will develop an ego that reinforces the idea of being talented.
Ego creates a form of superiority of self. It is our creation of the identity of our talents, personality, attitudes, etc. The main issue in ego construction is that it often rejects others as inferior to the self and considers the self as superior to others. This can not only be damaging for the individual, but it can also work as a barrier against development. Hence, it is essential to manage one’s ego so that the individual can maintain a positive relationship with others while being open to their ideas without forming a condescending attitude towards them.
What is the Difference Between Self Respect and Ego?
Definitions of Self Respect and Ego:
Self Respect: Self-respect refers to the regard that an individual has for themselves.
Ego: Ego can be understood as one’s self-importance.
Characteristics of Self Respect and Ego:
Focus:
Self Respect: In self-respect, the focus is on the regard that the individual has for themselves.
Ego: In the case of ego, the focus is on how important the individual feels.
Effect:
Self Respect: Self-respect can have a positive effect on oneself.
Ego: Ego can have a negative effect on oneself.
Impact:
Self Respect: Self-respect gives the individual confidence.
Ego: Ego can make the individual jealous, insecure, and arrogant.
