I've been thinking about pride lately. I am proud of my competence and put great effort into maintaining a certain level of efficacy. Should I fail, I am disappointed and ashamed.

Recently realized the similarities between this and the average simp. My time, my energy is all geared into satisfying some fickle voice in my head that provides nothing in return. I'm still tying myself up in expectations and unreasonable demands, only for an overinflated ego rather than someone else.

Funny that even after I've escaped the pussy chasing, made plans to leave the rat race, and in general flipped off societal expectations... I am still so beholden to shame, only from within. Wonder what other chains men bind themselves in without realizing it. We make our own cages. If I intend to be free, I need to do what's best for me and let go of my pride.