"贬低他人的人是在贬低自己。"

Debasing others is essentially putting yourself down. When you insult, belittle, or degrade another person, it says more about your character than theirs. This concept can be traced through history and psychology, showing that those who try to lower others' worth often reveal their own insecurities and weaknesses.

Think back to the playground in school. Remember the bully who picked on the smaller kids? They always seemed so tough, but deep down, they were often dealing with their own fears and inadequacies. Maybe they were struggling at home or were insecure about their abilities. By making others feel small, they attempted to feel bigger and more powerful. It’s a defense mechanism, a way to deflect internal pain onto someone else.

Take a modern-day example—something you might encounter at work. Picture a boss who constantly criticizes his employees, never offering a word of praise. He might call out mistakes in meetings, belittle ideas, and create an overall atmosphere of fear and resentment. This behavior doesn't just harm the employees; it ultimately damages the boss's reputation and the overall morale of the team. Over time, people start talking. They recognize that this person isn't a strong leader but someone who is insecure and fearful of losing control. Productivity drops, and the best employees leave. The team—and the boss—suffer because of this toxic environment.

So, how can you avoid this trap? First, start with self-awareness. When you feel the urge to criticize or put someone down, take a moment to ask yourself why. Are you feeling threatened? Insecure? Stressed? Recognize that the impulse to debase others often stems from your own issues. Address those head-on instead of deflecting them onto others.

Next, practice empathy. Imagine yourself in the other person’s shoes. How would you feel if someone spoke to you the way you're about to speak to them? Sometimes, taking that moment to empathize can change your entire approach. Instead of criticizing, you might find a way to offer constructive feedback or support.

Let’s imagine a scenario to bring this home. You're in a meeting, and a colleague presents an idea you think is completely off the mark. Your immediate reaction is to shoot it down. But stop—think about how you’d feel if you were in their position. Instead of saying, “That’s a terrible idea,” try, “I see where you're coming from, but what if we also considered this angle?” It's a slight shift, but it makes a world of difference. You’re not just preserving their dignity; you're also fostering a more collaborative environment.

In short, when you debase others, you’re really debasing yourself. It’s a sign of insecurity and weakness. But by treating others with respect and empathy, you build stronger relationships and a stronger sense of self. So next time you’re tempted to put someone down, take a step back. Think about what it says about you. And choose a different path—one that elevates everyone involved.