Strong and Weak

Sometimes we try to project an image of being strong to people around us. But at the same time, we often realize that we do it in vain - the more we demand or crave the respect of others, the less likely we are to receive it. If you've ever tried to raise children, you know this is true.

Here are some examples of how we may be unknowingly sabotaging ourselves while wrongly assuming we're strengthening our position with others.

• Fawning before people to win their favor
• Expressing contrived concern for someone's well-being
• Making small talk to cover up nervousness
• Hanging on to someone's every word
• Looking for someone's approval
• Asking if someone is angry with you
• Fishing for a kind word
• Trying to impress someone
• Gossiping
• Explaining yourself to others