I am the best
Jim Switzer | 07-22-08
A conversation I heard this week has made clear a concept that I’ve long understood, but never been able to explain.
I am the best.
Simply put, this is the inner feeling of anyone who is secure with themselves. “You are the best … husband, writer, programmer, human?” Is a common reply. The answer is no. To place limits on the statement renders it completely invalid. I am the best, globally, not at any one aspect of anything quantifiable, just the best. Oddly enough this is a concept that can not be conceived of by someone who truly believes that they are the best in any given field, or position. It applies mostly to those who strive everyday to be the best, though there is no way to qualify. Insecurity certainly rules out the ability to consider oneself the best, to be in constant question of bestness removes ones ability to reach it.
And so, am I saying that there is no such thing as the best? It is certainly a quantum concept. The best, by human nature, is in constant motion, any measurement taken at a given time is likely to be in question in the very next moment. An unquantified claim of best can not be proven or disproven, and so I can say, “I am the best,” and sincerely believe that I am.
Comments
My friends and I all agree on one thing, I am the best. Period. I showed them your article and they laughed to see someone try to compare themselves to me.
What a great topic, and a fantastic oberservation about perpetual motion of expressions like “The Best”. Great little pick me up! Thanks.
Jon,
This is an exercise in positive thinking, no more, no less. It is not to say that one is the ‘absolute’ best, just that one does one’s best every day, which allows such person the ability to go into each day with the goal of continuing to be the best by doing as good or better work.
I’d say someone who is secure with themselves has a solid understanding of their limits and limitations rather than simply believing they are the best. Only one person is ‘the best’ so the chances are it’s not you. If someone does believe they’re the best then they’re either arrogant or masking their insecurities behind self-delusional mantra. Thanks.