Habit Quote by William James
“We all have a lifelong habit of inferiority to our full self..."”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Principles of Psychology, William James, 1890
We tend to compare ourselves to an idealized self, fostering chronic feelings of inferiority.
In simple terms: Self‑comparison to an ideal creates inferiority.
Recognize and accept your current self.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- journaling
- therapy
- goal setting
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of your self are you idealizing?
- How can you celebrate present strengths?
Ideal self may be unattainable, leading to frustration.