Blue Pill sins to avoid

Stupidity Stupid people do not get ahead in this world. Strive to keep yourself informed and do not be fooled by others who seek to manipulate and use you.

Pretentiousness Taking pride in one’s achievements is good. However, one should only take credit for one’s own accomplishments. Making empty claims about yourself is not only obnoxious but also potentially dangerous, leading to self-deceit.

Solipsism Solipsism is the presumption many people make that other people think, act and have the same desires as themselves. It’s important to remember that everyone is an individual with his own individual goals and plans. To expect someone to treat you as you treat him is foolish. Instead, treat people as they treat you. You should always deal with the reality of the situation rather than expectations.

Self-Deceit Deal with the world as it is. Convincing yourself of untruths because they are more comfortable is no less problematic than letting someone else deceive you.

Herd Conformity Celebrate the power of the individual. Western culture encourages people to go with the flow, and to believe and do things simply because the wider community is doing such. Avoid such behavior. Following the herd only if it makes logical sense and suits your own needs.

Lack of Perspective Remain aware of both the big and small pictures, never sacrificing one for the other. Remember your own important place in things, and don’t be overwhelmed with the viewpoints of the herd. On the flipside, we do live in a world larger than ourselves. Always keep an eye on the big picture and how you can fit yourself into it.

Forgetful of Past Orthodoxies Society is constantly taking old ideas and repackaging them as new, original ideas. Do not be fooled by such offerings.

Counterproductive Pride If it works, use it. You should never be embarrassed of your own accomplishments. However, if pride is getting in the way of getting things done with other people, you should set it aside until such time as it becomes constructive again.

Lack of Aesthetics Beauty and balance are two things to strive for. Avoid following that which society dictates is beautiful and learn to identify true beauty, whether or not others recognize it.