If we say someone is vain, we can imply several different character traits of that person.

The word “vain” is complex and can have several meanings.

To explain the meaning of the word vain, we will start with its origin.

The word “vain” comes from the Latin word “Vanus,” which means “Empty.”

In the broadest sense, a vain person is empty, but the concept is much more complicated.

If we do a little research on the word vain, we will come across many different explanations.

Some of the most widely accepted definitions would be: having or showing an excessively high opinion of one’s appearance, abilities, or worth.

When we associate concepts such as arrogance, excessive pride, and insecurities with the word vain, the confusion becomes even more significant.

Where are you in this whole story? Have you ever wondered if you are a vain person?

If all this is still unclear to you, let’s see what signs indicate that you are vain.

Vain people always think that they are better than everyone

The thought “I’m better than everyone else” is the most common sign of someone’s vanity.

Vain people always think they are more beautiful and intelligent than everyone else. Or they believe that they are a better person than everyone. Whatever it is,  everyone else is always below them.

Even if it is clear that they are not better at something, they will not agree with it. Vain people will rub into everyone’s face if they are better at something.

Vain people are arrogant and always think they are worth more than others.

It’s nice that a person appreciates himself, but here we are talking about a complete narcissistic form of behavior.

The constant need to be in the center of attention

Overly vain people will do anything to draw attention, from being the loudest in the room to engaging in some risky behaviors.

It is always important what they have to say and that they are talked about. If not, the attention seeker will find creative ways to change it.

Attention seekers do not shy away from drama, so various dramatic situations are possible in their cries for attention.

Not taking advice from anyone

What advice can someone give me when I am already perfect and know everything? That’s what someone vain would think.

When it comes to giving advice, it’s quite the opposite.

Vain people always have advice for everyone and everything, which is logical because they think they know everything best.

Shallow personality

A vain person is often highly shallow in terms of interests and behavior.

Excessive interest in drama, gossip, and other people’s lives are all signs of vain, shallow persons.

Emphasis on physical appearance and excessive materialism also indicate that someone is shallow.

Too offensive and rude character

Trying to break illusions or insult a vain person can lead to improper behavior because no one can offend someone perfect.

An excessively vain person can take things that are advice or a clear statement of something as an insult directed at them and react violently to it.

Now that we know the signs of vanity in person, what are the consequences of excessively vain behavior?

The most significant consequence of vain behavior is neglecting one’s insecurities.

At the root of vanity, there are one’s insecurities and complexes.

Vanity forces us to wear rose-colored glasses toward ourselves and always see ourselves as flawless perfection. It also makes us overthink other people instead of focusing on ourselves.

No one likes people who are vain, shallow, arrogant, and too self-centered in their environment. So it is not surprising that hopeless people lose more and more friends over time.

You know the saying, “your vibe attracts your tribe.” Instead of focusing on keeping good friends, a vain person will attract other vain persons to them.

If you have realized that you have some forms of vanity in your behavior and want to change it, you are already on the right path.

Try to find the insecurities that are hidden in you

We have already established that various insecurities are often hidden behind vanity. Try to discover and then work on them.

You can consult a psychotherapist if you feel you cannot get rid of them.

Make a clear distinction between pride and vanity

It is normal and desirable for a person to be proud of himself or others.

Pride is a positive feeling, and vanity is a negative feeling.

Pride is a feeling of satisfaction derived from one’s or others’ achievements. Concepts related to pride are self-esteem, self-respect, self-worth, etc.

Vanity is excessive pride in or admiration of one’s appearance or achievements, such as narcissism, self-admiration, self-obsession, etc.

Don’t think about other people’s opinions; focus on yourself

How can you think more about yourself when you already think you are perfect? Ok, you think you’re perfect, but you constantly need validation from other people.

Don’t be obsessed with other people’s confirmation that you are perfect, but focus on yourself.

What is lacking in your life that you need to fill with approval and social admiration? That’s a fundamental topic to think about.

Put your ego aside and show empathy instead

Try to recognize that every person on this earth has the same value. You are no more or less worthy than everyone else.

Vanity comes from your ego (which is this voice in your head that keeps telling you you’re better, prettier than someone else).

To better understand others, try to put yourself in their shoes. Even if you disagree with them, try to understand their points of view.

If the discussion is civilized, respect their opinions even if they don’t match yours.

To Conclude,

“The knowledge of yourself will preserve you from vanity.”

– Miguel de Cervantes

Working on reducing your vanity will help you solve other problems that bother you and develop new spiritual skills that will enrich your life.

Goodbye vanity, welcome solidarity!