A short definition of Inferiority, by Roberto Assagioli:<\/p>\n
We can distinguish two different causes, or groups of causes, of indecision. One, which may be considered “constitutional,” occurs in introverted types who indulge in excessive and sterile self-analysis. They often have an intense sense of inferiority.<\/p>\n
Here, an important distinction should be made between a feeling of inferiority or superiority and an inferiority or superiority complex. This word “complex” is used in a rather loose fashion, whereas it should be reserved for serious, even pathological, cases. Everyone has a sense of superiority or inferiority.<\/p>\n
This represents no “complex” but is simply an inner attitude that is usually well within the bounds of normality. We are all superior in some things and inferior in others. But the introvert’s general feeling of inferiority, or even his inferiority complex, is usually not justified, because he is frequently intelligent and gifted with aesthetic and moral sensitivity. The Act of Will, p. 165<\/p>\n
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Inadequacy and Inferiority<\/strong> Lack of confidence in ourselves and our abilities is\u00a0often caused by the tendency to compare ourselves with\u00a0others, but this is not a rational process. No one is identical,\u00a0with the same capacities, abilities and qualities, and no\u00a0one will act in exactly the same way as another. So we If we are using our own “equipment” as best we\u00a0can, our achievements may be just as great for us as the\u00a0successes of others which are more spectacular. In a sense\u00a0it is a form of pride to want to equal or excel those around\u00a0us, and to feel that we should do so lets in glamours of A sense of inferiority can become a complex of a\u00a0crippling nature, restricting us and negativising our potentiality\u00a0in every way. Fear of failure is one of its chief\u00a0causes and those with this glamour have to learn not to\u00a0care so much about results-to do and be their best, but\u00a0remain emotionally detached from the result of their\u00a0endeavours. We should not be afraid of failure; it brings\u00a0experience and can teach us many lessons. It also strengthens\u00a0and enriches us for future achievements.<\/p>\n A less introspective attitude should also be adopted.\u00a0Many are apt to look too critically at themselves and constantly\u00a0pull themselves to pieces. This obviously makes\u00a0things even more difficult for them and only increases the\u00a0negative effects of these glamours. There is no need to\u00a0point out again the value of the techniques of dis-identification\u00a0and right proportions and of cultivating the opposite. (Meditation for the New Age<\/a>\u00a0Year 3)<\/p>\n
\nThe feeling that we are inadequate is another frequent\u00a0cause of depression. It is a glamour which undermines and\u00a0limits a great many, and we should remember the “snowballing”\u00a0tendency of all these glamours. We feel we are\u00a0inadequate and so we hold back from undertaking something;\u00a0then we feel that our lives are futile; then despondency\u00a0and depression deepen.<\/p>\n
\ncannot measure our achievements accurately against those\u00a0of others. People who are less able in some respects have\u00a0qualities that others may Jack, and all have different\u00a0limitations. We need to accept ourselves and our abilities\u00a0-or lack of them-and not mind if we seem to be “outshone”.<\/p>\n
\nvarious kinds.<\/p>\n