Tag Archives: Self-Respect

Character Is Destiny — For Nations, Too

Posted on January 14, 2021 by N.S. Palmer

China is our geopolitical adversary, but the ancient Chinese philosopher Mencius had some advice that might help us in these difficult times. He said: “Only after a person has demeaned himself will others demean him. Only after a great family … Continue reading →

Posted in Philosophy, Political Science | Tagged America, Anarcho-Tyranny, Anarchy, George Washington, Mencius, Rules of Civility, Self-Respect | Leave a comment

Freedom Means Responsibility

Posted on November 20, 2020 by N.S. Palmer

My first summer job in high school was as a copy boy for The Indianapolis Star newspaper. Yes, it was so long ago that we were called copy “boys” and nobody got triggered about sexism or patriarchy. Every morning when … Continue reading →

Posted in Life, Psychology | Tagged Constructive attitude, Courage, Declaration of Independence, Fear of freedom, Freedom, Personal responsibility, Positive thinking, Self-Respect | 2 Comments

Self-Esteem Versus Self-Respect

Posted on July 19, 2020 by N.S. Palmer

“Self-esteem” means feeling good about ourselves. And it’s nice to feel good about ourselves. It’s a cheap and easy pleasure. But it’s better if we have reasons to feel good about ourselves. That’s an important difference between self-esteem and self-respect. American President … Continue reading →

Posted in Life, Psychology | Tagged Abraham Lincoln, Achievement, Self-esteem, Self-Respect, Wisdom, Work ethic | Leave a comment

Compare and Contrast

Posted on September 5, 2019 by N.S. Palmer

“Compare and contrast.” It’s a staple of essay questions on college final exams. But be careful about applying it to life. Many people make themselves unhappy by comparing themselves to others who seem better off. They think that the other … Continue reading →

Posted in Human Relations, Life, Psychology | Tagged Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Comparing self to others, Comparisons, Optimism, Petula Clark, Positive thinking, Self-esteem, Self-Respect, Serenity, The other man's grass | 2 Comments

You’re Responsible for You

Posted on March 14, 2019 by N.S. Palmer

When you’re a small child, you feel that everything is about you. Your parents often encourage that delusion. They try to create a bubble where your needs are satisfied, your feelings are considered, and your safety is ensured. It’s a … Continue reading →