From childhood we are all indoctrinated into the cultural group-think of our local civilizations.  We are just part of a whole.  Life is bigger than just us.  Co-operation, collaboration, community behavior respecting others are a key part of all cultures and generally embedded into our upbringing.  This is pretty consistent regardless of what geographic location you grew up in.

I have also read a number of books and articles by behavior psychologists that this community behavior and focus on the value of social groupings is even stronger in females then males.

I wonder though, should it not really be “all about me”.    Respect for others needs is not excluded from this principle.  It does, however; focus on a basic reality of life, we are all individuals.   We all have ego’s and they should not only be respected by others but most importantly by ourselves.

What about me?

I was always partial to to this album track by Quicksilver Messenger Services, a sixties psychedelic rock band with strong ties to the drug culture of the time.   Take a listen.

The song is clearly reflective of North American (perhaps world wide) basic cultural changes that were occurring in the mid to late 1960’s.    The message focuses on the changes in the younger generations thinking and their desire to change culture as they seek to get out from under the thumb of “the man”.   Although the question is posed as “What about me?” the song could be interpreted as “All about me!”

Is that selfish, vain, proud, egotistical, self-centered,  self-serving, self- obsessed; the list goes on and on.  So many words with a negative connotation to describe what is generally very natural and needed behavior, in fact it is not only natural but truly beneficial.  That is to say self-worth is a key underpinning to how successful you are in the journey we call life.

Honestly, should you not most comfortable with your own self.

Clarification and Disclaimer

This post is not a demonstration that I am an uncharitable, opportunistic mercenary. (wow there really are a lot of ways to describe this behavior – none flattering either).

In fact respecting and practicing the basic self intuitive behaviors that support a thriving and effective social environment are not exclusive from being self aware and believing in (and promoting) your own greatness.

Remember being comfortable in ones own skin is far more feasible than being comfortable in the skin of someone else.