The Superiority Complex and Emotional Intelligence

A superiority complex is fundamentally linked to a lack of emotional intelligence. Studies suggest that long-term career success is directly connected to a person’s emotional intelligence. The more self-aware individuals are and the greater their ability to self-manage, the more successful they become.

Research has concluded that the superiority complex evolved as humanity’s attempt to resolve feelings of inferiority. Feeling superior may serve as a coping mechanism for those who feel depressed or inferior to others.

Recognizing a Superiority Complex

A superiority complex is a prominent psychological condition that can be identified simply by observing a person’s demeanor. Someone with a superiority complex will constantly boss others around to demonstrate their dominance and control over situations.

Profound vanity in appearance, incessant bragging, and snobbery are all visible signs of a superiority complex. Such individuals always enjoy telling exaggerated tales to remain in the spotlight. They take great pride in their material possessions and often boast about them.

Common Behavioral Patterns

People with superiority complexes have opinions about literally everything, regardless of whether they possess any knowledge of the subject. Because they believe they are more aware than others, they think interrupting is part of their skill set. They always believe they are right. Anyone who disagrees with them will be treated coldly from that point forward and labeled as an idiot.

Superior-minded people are most likely to lack empathy. They cannot express empathy or understand what others feel. They are often cold-hearted and moody, perpetually operating in the “I know everything” and “I am better than others” zone. They are prone to overthinking and are constantly solving problems internally.

The Hidden Struggle

A person with a superiority complex suffers great anxiety because of the image they must maintain at all times. Managing dual personalities makes their condition even more difficult because they feel they are above or outrank their peers.

That said, we should mention that not everyone who exhibits outlandish and domineering behavior suffers from a superiority complex. Some people are simply born with assertive personalities.

Overcoming the Superiority Complex

One can overcome a superiority complex by incorporating certain practices into daily life. By making a few behavioral changes, you can work toward getting over your superiority complex. Here’s how:

1. Don’t Take Appreciation Too Seriously

Appreciating others and being appreciated feels good, and it’s a practice everyone should embrace. Being recognized for something well done is motivating and encouraging. However, if you feel excessively elated every time someone praises you, you need to stop taking appreciation too seriously. You may be good at what you do, and you’re well aware of it, but don’t make a big deal out of compliments. Simply acknowledge them and move on. Don’t indulge in unnecessary fantasies about your greatness.

2. Don’t Judge Everyone

Just because you excel at something doesn’t give you the right to judge and degrade other people. You obviously have your opinions—everybody does. But you’re not always required to voice them; some things are better left unsaid. Exercise control over your feedback, especially if you haven’t been asked to provide it. Pause and consider the consequences before you open your mouth and let harsh judgments strike someone’s face.

Stop judging people because your assessments can be hurtful and blunt. Keep in mind that whether you like someone or not matters only to you, so keep it to yourself unless asked.

3. Stop Comparing

Everyone has their own way of doing things. Your methods may be better, but that doesn’t give you the right to judge others. As the saying goes, “comparison is the thief of joy”—the moment you start comparing, you stop enjoying things. So stop comparing and let things flow naturally. Don’t constantly intrude on what others are doing; let them do things their way.

Conclusion

Understanding and addressing a superiority complex requires honest self-reflection and a commitment to developing genuine emotional intelligence. By practicing humility, avoiding unnecessary judgment, and resisting the urge to compare yourself to others, you can build healthier relationships and achieve more authentic success. The path forward lies not in proving superiority, but in cultivating genuine self-awareness and respect for the diverse abilities and approaches of those around you. Do it their way. Continue reading more topics of suffering from a superiority complex.