What happens when texting replaces real conversation, video games replace time with friends, online browsing replaces in-person shopping, and working from home replaces going to the office? As people grow more isolated, they focus more on themselves and less on their relationships. That creates a “me, myself, and I” world — where kindness, cooperation, and civility are eroded by self-interest.

Those who think the world revolves around them put themselves first, demand others conform, and expect everyone to bend to their wishes. It’s all about their needs, their comfort, and their desires — and it doesn’t stop there. They can be rude, greedy, opinionated, and entitled.

It’s Not Just About You

Too much isolation doesn’t just make you lonely — it can warp your perspective, undermine your habits, and make you forget how to relate to others. Here are six ways isolation takes its toll:

Rude. People who are rude disregard social norms or the feelings of others, showing little concern for how their actions affect those around them.

Disrespectful. People who disrespect, belittle, or insult others often undermine their dignity or status.

Greedy. People who are lazy, manipulative, and stingy are always on the take, placing an unfair burden on others.

Opinionated. People who are closed-minded pressure others to adopt their beliefs and values.

Self-serving. People who are self-centered focus solely on their own needs while disregarding how their actions affect others.

Entitled. People who feel entitled demand rewards without putting in the effort to earn them.

It’s Time to Get Over Yourself

I am sure you don’t want to come across as ruthless, insensitive, or self-absorbed. But too much isolation can make you oblivious to those around you. When you start acting selfishly — taking advantage of others, disregarding their rights, or ignoring the fallout of your actions — everyone pays the price, including you.

You might think this essay is about how your behavior affects others. True — but it affects you even more. Relationships are the foundation of happiness, and your actions shape both how others see you and how you see yourself. How do you think others feel when you act coldly or disrespectfully toward them? Ultimately, your actions shape the trust, respect, and reputation you earn — and, above all, the self-respect you carry every day.

If you rant on social media, talk down to people, or demand more than you deserve, it’s time to take a good hard look in the mirror.

You’re better than that.

It doesn’t take much to show a little kindness, use basic manners, and treat people the way you want to be treated. It’s the small things — driving courteously, being on time for appointments, respecting others in shared spaces by not using speakerphone, dressing appropriately instead of wearing pajamas in public, and cleaning up after yourself at the table. That’s common courtesy and shows you care.

Don’t wait for problems to appear or for someone to point them out to you. Be mindful of your actions. Take the bull by the horns — be kind, selfless, and respectful. What do you have to lose?

You might just become the person everyone wishes they were — a role model who inspires, uplifts, and leaves a mark without even trying.

Do you put me, myself, and I first? Every choice you make sends ripples into the lives of others. Choose wisely.

Do You Put I Over Everyone Else?

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“Few voices speak with more clarity and moral courage than my friend Frank Sonnenberg, who has a rare gift for helping people see what truly matters most. His timeless insights call us back to what endures—trust, integrity, and purpose—and inspire us to live them every day.”

Stephen M. R. Covey, The New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Speed of Trust and Trust & Inspire

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If This Won’t Get You Thinking, Nothing Will
by Frank Sonnenberg Check it out by clicking here

Additional Reading:
What Does It Take to Show a Little Kindness?
How to Spot Someone on a Power Trip
15 Common Myths About Building Trust
The Costs of a Big Ego
How Credible Are You?
Live with Grace and Dignity
If Your Behavior Is Contagious, What Will People Catch?

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