Why People Act Like They Are Extremely Important and Badass

Have you ever wondered why people behave as if they were extremely important and bad to the core? This phenomenon can be attributed to a complex interplay of psychology, competition, and the human desire for recognition. In today's world, it's harder than ever to stand out, but a certain level of self-importance and bravado can often serve as a boost to one's ego and self-esteem.

The Psychology Behind Self-Importance

Many individuals adopt a persona of self-importance as a means of self-validation. By proclaiming their importance and achieving remarkable feats, they bolster their self-esteem. It is a form of self-protection, where individuals shield themselves from feelings of inadequacy and failure. Consider historical figures like Cesare Borgia, Genghis Khan, and Cleopatra. These individuals are remembered not because they lived ordinary lives, but because they made a significant impact on history. Their actions and influence were so immense that they have entered the annals of history as "badass," a term often used to describe high-risk, high-reward behavior.

From Badass Characters to Popular Entertainment

The concept of a "badass" is not limited to historical figures. In contemporary popular entertainment, we have a plethora of characters that embody this trait—Han Solo, James Bond, Ellen Ripley, Wonder Woman, and Indiana Jones. These characters are celebrated for their courage, skill, and unconventional approach to challenges. In essence, they represent the quintessential "badass," someone who defies norms and pushes boundaries in pursuit of their goals.

The Dilemma of Standing Out in a Crowded World

As the world's population continues to grow, it becomes increasingly difficult to stand out. With a vast pool of talented individuals in every field, it is essential to assert one's uniqueness to secure a place in the limelight. Historically, professionals in emerging scientific fields, such as the 'learned scholars' at the Royal Society in London, could count their peers on one hand. However, in today's world, the competition is fierce. The limited resources for research grants and professional advancement exacerbate this challenge, leading many to take extreme measures to secure their status.

Today, merely having a degree may not be enough to set you apart. Fields such as sports, science, and entertainment require a combination of talent, dedication, and a bit of self-importance to gain recognition. For instance, in sports, drug use and cheating are sometimes considered acceptable to gain an "edge." Similarly, in science, researchers may manipulate data to secure funding and support for their work. Once a person has established a name for themselves, such actions are often overlooked.

Ironically, the old notion of the absent-minded professor in a cozy laboratory set in a small town seems like a thing of the past. In today's world, the competition is so fierce that even global icons might fade into obscurity without a constant stream of high-profile projects. For example, if Elvis Presley or The Beatles were alive today, their music might be considered noteworthy, but it would be unlikely to achieve the same level of international fame. There are too many distractions and too much competition.

The universal human desire for recognition drives this behavior. Popular culture provides a platform for this quest for fame and attention. Actors, chefs, scientists, authors, and even social media influencers all strive for a certain level of notoriety. A celebrity chef must run at least three successful restaurants in different continents and feature on television, while a well-known name in science requires a Nobel Prize. A renowned author needs at least one best-selling book, and aspiring actors must have starred in multiple hit movies to achieve stardom.

Conclusion

In essence, the behavior of people acting like they are extremely important and "badass" is a manifestation of the human quest for recognition and self-validation. As the world continues to evolve, the competition for attention and respect remains intense. By embracing a sense of self-importance and exceptionalism, individuals can overcome the challenges of standing out in a crowded world.