Principles: Strength or a Mental Trap?

People respect those who stand by their principles. They are unwavering in their beliefs, incorruptible, and true to their ideals. Such individuals are seen as strong, inspiring, and worthy of admiration.

People respect those who stand by their principles. They are unwavering in their beliefs, incorruptible, and true to their ideals. Such individuals are seen as strong, inspiring, and worthy of admiration.

But in reality, rigid principles often turn out to be a limitation rather than a strength. Beneath them lie childhood traumas, fears, and coping mechanisms that help a person manage their internal struggles.

Where is the line between principles and stubbornness?

Being principled means following certain rules. But the key question is: what are they based on? If principles stem from objective experience, real data, and conscious choice, they can make a person stronger. But if they are just unquestioned childhood beliefs or blind faith in something that is never challenged, they become a mental cage.

How can you test your principles?
— Why do I believe in this?
— What is my belief based on?
— Does it help me, or does it hold me back?

In most cases, people don’t actually know—they simply believe. This is not principled thinking; it is dogmatism.

When Principles Become an Obstacle

Strong personal principles are like a jade rod. It’s good to have one inside, but if it’s too big and constantly on display, it starts getting in the way—not just for others, but for the person themselves.

Someone who flaunts their principles tends to see everything as a fight, a conflict, or a battle to prove their righteousness. The result? Constant stress, hostility, and an inability to adapt.

Principles vs. Common Sense

Real strength does not come from rigidly adhering to old dogmas, but from analyzing, evolving, and improving one's beliefs. This is not a betrayal of principles—it is their refinement.

It is better to be flexible and self-aware than stubborn and blind.