The Ego Boom
Everyone has changed, according to two Canadian authors of the book called The Ego Boom: Why the World Really Does Revolve Around You.
Steve Maich and Lianne George argue that today we think much differently than we used to. Once upon a time we would ask for help from others. That morphed into the individual wanting, wanting, wanting products. Today, that too, has changed to where we all think we’re experts. We are so “special” that we think we know more than others, and this has led to today’s economic meltdown. For example, many young people have bought homes with huge mortgages, not because they could afford to, but because they are “special” and want everyone to see that, say the authors. We all want to be seen by others. The result is social media such as Facebook.
I use Facebook and sometimes I see a “friend” say “YES, I just washed my hair.” Who cares? Today, the cell phone seems to be the best friend of young people because the phones can be customized with a special ring, a special color, a special type—all special because I’m special.
Employers today report that many potential employees won’t stay on the job, won’t agree change their outlook.
Universities report that students argue, ferociously, to have their grades increased. I know of one case where the students and parents showed up at the door of the professor, along with their lawyer. This philosophy also has led many people to have little if any trust in the institutions of the courts, schools, medicine and more.
A few years ago Time Magazine featured its Person of the Year. No, it wasn’t Bill Gates or the Pope or Gandhi. It was YOU. You and I are so special we can hardly stand it. And yet, how will that attitude work when our young people have to enter the workforce in an economy that is rapidly being transformed? Our children need to learn how to think, how to adjust as the changes come in their future.
Thanks to contributing author John Storm, Center Director of Oxford Learning St. Catharines.
- The Ego Boom: Why the World Really Does Revolve Around You
By Steve Maich and Lianne George
I think what is most interesting about this phenomenon is that in spite of the fact that “ego” is at an all time high, “self-confidence” and “self esteem” are so low in today’s youth. Perhaps we are experiencing the brunt of over-compensation?
Alanna raises an interesting point. I’d like to offer a suggestion. The focus on self-esteem leads to narcissism, not necessarily happiness with self. What seems to be necessary is a focus on esteeming and respecting and helping others, and this will lead to satisfaction and happiness. We are not islands, but relational beings who need to be engaged with other people. It’s very much like leaders in industry and government – the most successful are those who respect and honour the work of their subordinates, and serve them by giving them the tools and space they need to do their jobs. We gain by giving things up for the good of others. Sounds altruistic, but it’s an enduring pattern of life.