If you are a self-possessed man with a healthy sense of detachment from your bank account and someone writes you a cheque for tens of millions of dollars you probably behave as if you have won a sweepstake, kicking your feet in the air and laughing yourself to sleep at night at the miracle of your good fortune. But if your sense of self-worth is morbidly wrapped up in your financial success you probably believe you deserve everything you get. You take it as a reflection of something grand inside you. You acquire gravitas
In Michael Lewis's "Liar's Poker," the author contrasts two types of people in relation to their financial success. The first type is self-possessed and maintains a healthy detachment from their wealth. For them, receiving a large sum of money feels like winning a lottery - a stroke of luck that brings joy without altering their sense of self. They are able to appreciate the windfall without letting it define their identity.
Conversely, the second type of individual has their self-worth intricately tied to their financial achievements. For them, financial success is not just a benefit but a validation of their worth as a person. They may develop a sense of gravitas, believing that their wealth reflects something significant within themselves. This mindset can lead to an inflated sense of entitlement, where the individual feels they inherently deserve the riches they acquire.
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