Meaning Deprivers vs. Meaning Givers

Huh? This sounds like that person...

There's someone who immediately came to mind when I saw the characteristic of 'Meaning Depriver' mentioned in <You Are Stronger Than You Think>.

What is a Meaning Depriver? It refers to people like energy vampires who take away our reason for existence and purpose in life. They are around us in various forms, such as friends, family, seniors, colleagues, and online acquaintances, and they exploit us for their own gain.

Author Mi-kyung Jeon mentioned the common characteristics of Meaning Deprivers in <You Are Stronger Than You Think>.

1. They always point out flaws.
2. They prioritize results over the process.
3. They use others as a means to an end.
4. They disregard individual uniqueness.
5. They only value visible actions.
6. They are stingy (whether material or spiritual).
7. They don't ponder the meaning and value of life.
8. They don't know how to be grateful to others.

-You Are Stronger Than You Think, Mi-kyung Jeon, Woongjin Think Big

Relationships with people who have these characteristics can paint our lives in shades of gray. However, many people find it difficult to sever these relationships even when they know that the other person is having a negative impact on them. It's because of anxiety and fear. The uncertainty about the future and past hurts keep us trapped in unhealthy relationships.

"Will I be even more lonely without this friend?", "Is what my senior said truly for my benefit?", "What if no one is there for me when I need help?"

For various reasons, we continue to maintain relationships that are harmful to us. We keep eating the poisoned apple, even though we know it's poisoned, due to worry about an uncertain future.

To break free from bad relationships, we must overcome anxiety and fear. Deeply understanding your emotions and managing your mind well is crucial.

Can we truly find happiness in a relationship with someone who only points out our flaws and sees us as a mere tool?

We must draw a clear line with Meaning Deprivers. Even if I come across as a villain in this process, it's okay to be resolute and become a villain if it's for protecting myself.

"If you're just a bad guy, then I'll be an even worse one."

Don't be afraid to become a villain sometimes to protect yourself. We have the right to resist negative influences that harm us, and we must never forget that we are the protagonists of our own lives. By escaping from energy vampires who steal our reason for existence and purpose in life, we will get closer to the life we truly desire.

[Characteristics of Meaning Givers we should meet]

1. They always mention strengths.

2. They prioritize the process over the results.

3. They regard others as a goal.

4. They acknowledge individuality and differences.

5. They value emotions, awakenings, thoughts, etc. within the person rather than the act itself.

6. They know the beauty of sharing.

7. They ponder the meaning and value of life.

8. They are grateful to others.

-You Are Stronger Than You Think, Mi-kyung Jeon, Woongjin Think Big