The Psychologist Solved the Problem!

Many years ago I heard an enormously funny joke. Even at the time it struck me as a little cruel, but it was still hilarious.

A man went to his psychologist for help with a problem.

“I have this really deep-rooted inferiority complex,” he explained. “It prevents me from doing well at my job and I miss out on promotions and I just feel lousy every day. Please can you help me?”

“Of course,” said the psychologist.

So, they began and the psychologist used all the tools in his box. They tried visualizations and positive reinforcement and hypnosis and affirmations and a whole lot more.

But nothing seemed to work. The man grew increasingly morose, and the psychologist felt professionally challenged.

One day the psychologist had a Eureka moment and called his client. “I’ve solved your problem,” he said excitedly. “Can you come by my office?”

The man came by at once. “What did you discover?” he asked eagerly.

“You don’t have a complex at all,” said the psychologist triumphantly. “You really are inferior.”

Do you compare yourself to others and come up short? There are people who are younger and more handsome. They have more money and are better known. They tell funnier jokes. Their children are brighter, their partners are more accomplished and their homes are better decorated. Even their dogs behave better.

And perhaps you, like the psychologist, come to the conclusion that you are inferior.

Relax. You might very well be ‘inferior’ on the particular metrics you use for measurement. The important thing to remember is that those metrics don’t mean much.

Your well-being does not depend on your pelf or fame or accomplishments. It depends on the extent to which you keep your spiritual journey vibrant and alive and vibrant.

And on this journey you are neither inferior nor superior. You are just you.

Peace!