There are two paths to take when in connection with others.
The first one, where you’ll make people feel less about themselves and even make them act out of survival around your presence. Your unhealthy ego and pride will probably thrive from this. However, you won’t ever feel safe while also living in constant distrust and negative concern.
The second one where people will flourish in your presence while feeling safe and welcome. Your heart will love this, and your healthy ego will, after acknowledging your worth by doing good deeds in times like these, also make you see your own worth. This will make it easier for you to set strict boundaries for yourself while at the same time nourishing from the positive energy that surrounds you.
In my book of all mighty books, there actually is only one real and long-lasting path to pursue. The one where we act from love and not survival .