I think that’s a really useful breakdown. And I think it lets one attack the problem in a way that’s productive and healthy. If you’re able to be honest with yourself and admit that you are having very human feelings, by feelings that are counter-productive and self-indulgent you’re more likely to be able put on the brakes.

I know that I’m intellectually vain. It’s a personal foible and it can be very unattractive, but I’m always concerned that everyone know how smart I am. But I think being able to admit it, and acknowledging it is a fault, is the first step towards controlling it.