Kristine Chang on how power and praise erode perspective, and why humility is the one thing you cannot afford to lose. She cites C.S. Lewis, asks hard questions about your own behavior, and emphasizes accountability over recognition.
Hello. Humility is the anchor of the self. It grounds you in truth, reminding you that no matter how high you climb, you are never above the fundamental realities of life: kindness, respect, and the shared human experience. Yet power and recognition have a way of warping perception. Success, whether it comes through career achievements, Social media influence or personal victories doesn't change a person overnight. It creeps in slowly, disguising itself as confidence, as deserved privilege. A small compromise here, a moment of entitlement there, until one day you look in the mirror and you don't recognize the person staring back. Many who gain influence begin to believe they are untouchable, mistaking admiration for validation of superiority. They forget where they started, losing the very essence of who they once were. And the truth is, it can happen to any of us. As C.S. Lewis once said, humility is not thinking less of yourself; it's thinking of yourself less. Staying humble isn't about diminishing your worth; it's about keeping your perspective in check, remembering that success doesn't elevate your humanity above others. That's why it's so important to be intentional, to check in with yourself regularly by asking these questions: Are you still treating people with the same respect no matter their status? Do you still listen more than you speak? Do you acknowledge your mistakes or do you find ways to justify them? Would your past self be proud of who you are now? No one else can keep you from losing yourself. Only you can. And that's why self-awareness and accountability matter. Being your own harshest critic isn't about tearing yourself down, but keeping yourself grounded. Growth isn't about success. It's about staying true to who you are along the way. And one thing to take away is that success is temporary, but character lasts. Hold on tightly to humility and don't let the world define you by numbers, titles, or applause. Because when those fade, what will be left is the way you've treated others, the integrity you've upheld, and the person you've chosen to become. The one thing you cannot afford to lose is yourself. Because if you do, no amount of recognition will ever be enough to fill what's missing. I love you all. I love you too.
