This quote is a reflection on human nature and self-perception. It essentially means that people often feel humiliated or shamed when others do not value them as highly as they value themselves. The ‘average man’ here is a representation of all individuals who hold a certain self-esteem or self-worth. When the external valuation or recognition does not match this self-perception, it leads to feelings of embarrassment and shame.
The quote also suggests that people inherently desire validation and acknowledgment from others. This validation serves as a mirror to their self-perception. When the reflection in this mirror is not as flattering as they believe it should be, it causes discomfort and distress.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a call to cultivate self-awareness and realistic self-assessment. Often, people tend to overestimate their abilities or worth, leading to disappointments and feelings of inadequacy when the world does not respond in the same vein. By developing a more grounded understanding of one’s worth, individuals can avoid such emotional turmoil.
In today’s world, this quote is especially relevant in the age of social media where external validation has become a significant part of people’s lives. Likes, comments, and shares have become new metrics of worth, often leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy when the response is not as expected. This quote serves as a reminder that self-worth should not be dependent on external validation, but rather on a realistic and balanced understanding of oneself.
