This quote suggests that while people around us may attempt to inflate our sense of self-worth or importance, it’s ultimately our responsibility to keep our egos in check. In essence, it’s about the balance between self-confidence and humility. While it’s beneficial to have a healthy level of self-esteem, it’s equally important to remain grounded and not let our egos become inflated to the point of arrogance or narcissism.

The concept of ‘feeding our ego’ refers to instances where others might flatter us, praise our accomplishments, or otherwise contribute to an inflated sense of self. This could come in the form of compliments, admiration, or even the simple act of agreeing with our opinions or ideas. While these actions can boost our self-esteem, they can also lead to an inflated ego if we let them.

However, Aesop points out that it’s up to us to ‘constrain’ or control our ego. This means recognizing the difference between genuine self-worth and inflated self-importance, and maintaining a balance between the two. It’s about understanding that while praise and admiration from others can feel good, it doesn’t define our worth or value.

In today’s world, this idea is especially relevant. With the rise of social media, it’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of seeking validation and approval from others. This can lead to an inflated ego, as we begin to equate ‘likes’ and ‘followers’ with our self-worth. However, it’s important to remember that these external validations are fleeting and don’t truly reflect our value as individuals.

In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to stay grounded and humble, regardless of how much praise or admiration we receive from others. It encourages self-awareness and introspection, urging us to reflect on our accomplishments and failures with a balanced perspective. It’s a call to cultivate a sense of self-worth that comes from within, rather than relying on external validation. This not only helps in maintaining healthy relationships but also contributes to personal growth and emotional resilience.