Human Nature: Value Exchange

Interactions between people are essentially an exchange of values. So-called kindness shown to you is often based on your usefulness. Don't expect someone to be loyal and devoted to you unconditionally unless you consistently offer something they want.

No matter how kind you are, when you lack value, even if you are as gentle as a cat, others will dislike you for shedding hair. Human nature can be perceived as unpleasant. No one will love you simply because you love them; the other person will likely only value you because you possess admirable qualities. Your worth can feel like everything. There are rarely purely good or purely bad people.

When benefits are involved, strangers become friends; when those benefits disappear, friends can become strangers. The less appealing side of human nature is that people may try to please you when they need something from you but turn against you when they don't.

A person's worth is often perceived as everything they possess. Interactions between people can feel like a business transaction. Whether you can interact with them sincerely might entirely depend on your bargaining chips!

Life! There is rarely timely help without a reason! Your own strength is often your most significant advantage.

As an individual, never overestimate your relationship with anyone, and never underestimate the self-serving aspect of human nature. Just as the great writer Maugham said: You must overcome your vanity, control your desire to show off, and manage your cleverness that constantly seeks the spotlight.

In life, sincerity is valuable, but there's no need to be overly polite with those who are genuine. We don't have to deceive anyone, but we can choose not to say what we prefer not to, and we shouldn't say what is unnecessary. Avoid provoking negative emotions in others and attracting trouble by flaunting your successes and pleasant experiences.

Instead of trying hard to please others, it is better to focus on improving yourself.

Pursue education and knowledge, but remember that mastering knowledge is not the ultimate goal but a means to an end. The most important outcome is that we gain the power of choice.

From now on, please focus on yourself, work diligently to improve, believe in your potential, avoid losing yourself to gain others' approval, and cultivate a charming and unique identity.

For the rest of your life, don’t be overly humble or seek to please everyone. Instead, quietly appreciate and love, and be your warmest and most comfortable self—that is enough!

Thank you for reading!