“Ego run riot” is an unpleasant way of being. In our daily lives, we all experience moments when we feel like the world revolves around us. We become consumed by our own desires, goals, and accomplishments, and everything else fades into the background. This is what psychologists refer to as “ego run riot” – a state where our ego takes over, leaving little room for self-reflection or concern for others. While a healthy sense of self-confidence and self-worth is necessary for success and happiness, an unchecked ego can lead us down a dangerous path of arrogance, entitlement, and self-destruction.
Understanding Ego Run Riot
Ego run riot is essentially an unhealthy attachment to our sense of self-importance. It’s when our ego becomes so inflated that it dominates our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and we lose sight of the bigger picture. This state can be triggered by external factors such as success, fame, or wealth, or internal factors such as insecurity, fear, or loneliness. When our ego runs riot, we tend to overestimate our abilities, exaggerate our achievements, and underestimate the contributions of others. We become self-absorbed, impatient, and critical of others, and our relationships suffer as a result.
Ego traps and how to avoid them:
The good news is that ego traps can be recognized and avoided. Here are some common ego traps and ways to sidestep them:
-
Comparison trap
- We all tend to compare ourselves to others, but when we do it too often or too intensely, we can fall into the comparison trap. We start to believe that our worth is determined by how we measure up to others, and we become obsessed with being better than everyone else. To avoid this trap, we need to shift our focus from external validation to internal validation. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we can focus on our own progress and growth.
-
Validation trap
- Our ego craves validation and recognition, and when we don’t get it, we can become resentful and bitter. To avoid this trap, we need to learn how to validate ourselves. We can do this by setting our own standards of success and measuring our progress against them. We can also practice self-compassion and self-care, reminding ourselves that our worth is not dependent on external validation.
-
Control trap
- Ego run riot often stems from a desire to control everything and everyone around us. We become obsessed with being right, having things our way, and micromanaging others. To avoid this trap, we need to learn to let go of control and trust others. We can practice delegating tasks, seeking input from others, and being open to feedback.
-
Entitlement trap
- When our ego runs riot, we can start to feel entitled to special treatment, privileges, and attention. We believe that we are above the rules and that we deserve to be treated differently. To avoid this trap, we need to practice humility and gratitude. We can remind ourselves that we are no better than anyone else and that we are fortunate to have the opportunities and resources that we do.
Final Thoughts
Ego run riot is a common phenomenon, but it doesn’t have to control our lives. By recognizing the signs of ego traps and practicing humility, self-compassion, and self-awareness, we can avoid the pitfalls of an unchecked ego. We can focus on our own growth and progress while also valuing the contributions of others, and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships as a result. This is spirituality. If you’d like, check out Developing Spirituality, even if You’re Not Religious.