Jim Teeters struggled to overcome problems related to the powerful influence of pride in his life. He felt

Jim Teeters struggled to overcome problems related to the powerful influence of pride in his life. He felt

superior to students enrolled in one of his classes at a local community college. His smug attitude was quickly altered when he discovered that he was unable to clarify the statistical aspects of social research. After this emotional experience, Teeters was ready to accept the Hebrew proverb, "Pride goes before a fall." His life was changed for the better after meeting with his students and disclosing his thoughts and feelings.

Increased self-awareness is an important key to achieving authenticity. We have defined self-awareness as the ability to recognize and understand your moods, emotions, and drives, as well as their effect on others. Jim Teeters discovered that pride can be a negative emotion, especially when he felt superior to others. In the classroom, he was not acting in ways congruent with his values and needs.