Living in a large metropolitan area like I do, I'm often surprised by the stark contrasts I see between people here and those in the more laid-back Midwestern community where I grew up. Some of these are positive: a higher level of awareness and respect for other countries and cultures, a widespread interest in fitness and nutrition, a greater motivation to succeed. However, one disturbing thing I have noticed is the miserable lack of humility in Washington, DC, and the rather selfish attitude. tendencies of the people who live here. Whether in a professional or social setting, I'm always amazed at how quickly people show off their business card, mention the Ivy League school they attended, or nod and smile through someone's story and then interrupt to speak of themselves. But I don't think these people are programmed to be self-centered, instead I think they've made choices that have led them to think single-mindedly about their own success. Indeed, “no man is an island,” and this single-mindedness isolates the career-minded person from authentic social interaction, a phenomenon of which he is probably not even aware. The operating assumption this type of person is making seems clear: "To be successful, to achieve great things, I have to act like I'm so awesome and make sure everyone knows it." And, of course, when there are more than a few of these people in a room, teamwork inevitably ensues, to everyone's detriment... So what are these enterprising workers missing? New horizons. The more you talk about yourself, the less open you are to learning about the experiences of others, and therefore you close yourself off to new information and new experiences. Personal mystery. Running… middle of the card… period, they are actually listening to you and are probably ready to be your advocate. If you want to live a successful life that is also personally fulfilling, then you must be wary of the superficial and always seek the deeper meaning and purpose in everything. You know yourself better than anyone else, so talking about yourself equals zero progress. Say no to egomania and open up to the world around you. If you remember nothing else: The ego isolates you from the community around you and brings out the worst in others You can be confident and proud of yourself without being arrogant Boasting gets you nowhere, as it makes you like everyone else . Humility sets you apart from the group, is easier for you, and makes others more like you. Developing real connections with people is more rewarding, both personally and professionally, than “networking""