Self-Esteem vs. Egotism: Don’t confuse one with the other

We often hear about egotism — that feeling when someone wants to show everyone around how superior they are. But self-esteem is a whole different story. The difference is essential, and here’s why.

We often hear about egotism — that feeling when someone wants to show everyone around how superior they are. But self-esteem is a whole different story. The difference is essential, and here’s why.

When you do something for yourself, to simply feel better, that’s self-esteem. Imagine, for example, working on a clean, stylish computer that you enjoy. Not because you want everyone around to notice your new device, but because it gives you a sense of order and inner comfort. That’s self-respect — even if no one else sees it.

Egotism, however, is about acting for other people’s attention. Buying a new Mac, going to a café, and laying it out for everyone to think how cool you are, or choosing brands, cars, status symbols — all for the sake of other people’s reactions. Such behavior has nothing to do with self-worth, as it doesn’t come from within.

Think of the broken windows theory. One small thing — a dirty keyboard, a cracked cup — might seem unimportant. But slowly, step by step, chaos begins. Eventually, you might find that instead of your favorite workspace, there’s clutter, a dusty desk, messy clothes, and a corner of the room filled with odds and ends. Little things add up, and there’s no room left for self-respect.

Self-esteem is when you do something for yourself to feel worthy. It requires self-care and attention to details. That’s where true self-respect begins.