Today I want to talk about something personal — a trait of mine that’s rubbed some people the wrong way. Recently, I heard someone described me as someone who “thinks too highly of himself.” Me. Please. Wouldn’t you think highly of yourself if you looked like this? (Kidding…)

• Last week, a good friend said, “Can I give you a compliment?” I lit up and replied, “Of course you can. Maybe even two… Can I record it?” — joking, of course. But anyone who knows me in real life knows this: I love a good compliment. I don’t pretend to be humble about it. And yes, that can make people uncomfortable.

I’ve been told I have a big ego. That I think I’m better than others. But in my view, there’s a big difference between confidence and arrogance — between celebrating yourself and putting others down.

We’re often taught that humility is a virtue. And somewhere along the way, we start asking: “Who am I to be brilliant, beautiful, talented, fabulous?” But really… who are you not to be?

If you believe in God, then you are a child of God. If you believe in the universe, you’re part of something vast and incredible. And playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s no nobility in shrinking so others won’t feel insecure around you.

Let me say it again: there’s no kindness in making yourself smaller. Remember that.

With love,
Micael.