Self-pity is one of the most debilitating emotions we can succumb to. Shane Parrish shared his views on self-pity in his weekly blog:
“Self-pity feels like medicine and works like poison.”
Self-pity is often a reaction to suffering or misfortune. It is characterized by inner dialogues that include phrases like “why me?” or “what did I do to deserve this?” It can be comforting, at first, because it seems to soothe the pain we feel. However, long-term effects of self-pity lead to constant negativity and unhappiness. Then, we start becoming victims and blame everything around us for our problems.
Self-pity is such a powerful emotion, it is used continually to control groups of people through division and divisiveness. Think politics.
In agriculture, where risk from things like weather events, livestock disease, crop failure, accidents, and markets are more prevalent, self-pity can creep in.
A positive attitude is the best defense against self-pity. When we recognize that every setback is an opportunity to grow and learn, we fight against the feelings of self-pity.
When I’m going through a particularly tough situation, I do some internal introspection. Prayer is my best defense against self-pity and often includes: “God, what are you trying to show me?” I often look back at how things worked out from past experiences. This review helps me put things into perspective and resist the victimhood mentality.
Responding to difficult situations with faith builds resilience. Resilience is this idea that no matter what happens, I will be ok.
Quote Worth Re-Quoting
“Good things happen when you surround yourself with positive people.” ~ Roy Bennett
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