I’m going to do just one line today. This particular quote really resonates with me because there are so many examples of it in my life:

“He who tries to shine dims his own light”

I lived this quote before I ever read it. When I went to college, it was a time of freedom and evolution. I was sheltered and unpopular in high school, so when things started to go my way in college, it went to my head. I would become arrogant at times, until I noticed how much this turned off those around me.

Bragging is not just annoying, it’s draining. I was spending my energy trying to convince others of my worth, instead of using it to do something worthwhile.

I would learn this lesson temporarily, but I would forget it the next time I reached a new level. Specifically, as I began to become a better Ultimate Frisbee player, I started inflating myself to my teammates and other players. Again, the reaction was negative, and my play actually suffered.

It took me a few goes at this to realize the universe has no interest in my conceited ways. Finally, I learned to act with humility after meaningful accomplishments. Of course, I came to find that the compliments that come along with success feel great, and that a genuine “great job” or “you should be proud” is much more fulfilling than being a braggart.

• The quote is taken from the wonderful Stephen Mitchell translation of Tao the Ching.
• If you are interested in Taoism, you might enjoy my book Tao of Thoreau.