A superiority complex can make someone seem arrogant, entitled, and out of touch.
Of course, such an inflated sense of self-importance doesn’t just appear out of nowhere — it often starts in childhood. If you grew up grounded and humble, it’s likely your parents did a few things right. After all, these parenting approaches that help raise confident kids without a superiority complex.
1. They praised effort, not just achievement.
Source: Unsplash Instead of focusing solely on results, they acknowledged the hard work you put in. When parents praise effort by saying things like, “I’m proud of how hard you tried,” it helps kids value persistence over perfection. Not only that, but it builds confidence without creating a sense of entitlement.
2. They taught you to respect everyone.
Your parents made it clear that respect isn’t reserved for certain people — it applies to everyone, regardless of status, job, or background. They showed you how to treat waiters, teachers, friends, and strangers with kindness. This lesson in respect keeps you grounded and prevents feelings of superiority.
3. They let you experience failure.
Shielding kids from failure can create unrealistic expectations. If your parents allowed you to fail and helped you learn from it, they taught you resilience. Learning that it’s okay to fall short helps you avoid thinking you’re better than anyone else just because you succeed sometimes.
4. They set boundaries and stuck to them.
Your parents weren’t afraid to say “no” and follow through with consequences. Boundaries teach children that the world doesn’t revolve around them. Having structure helps kids understand limits, which curbs the belief that they deserve special treatment.
5. They encouraged empathy.
Source: Pexels Instead of focusing solely on how *you* felt, your parents asked, “How do you think that made them feel?” That simple question taught you to see things from other people’s perspectives. Empathy helps you appreciate other people’s experiences and prevents self-centred thinking.
6. They modelled humility.
Source: Unsplash Your parents didn’t act like they were better than anyone else. They admitted their mistakes, apologised, and showed that they were still learning, too. Watching them display humility taught you that it’s okay not to have all the answers and that everyone has room to grow.
7. They didn’t compare you to anyone else.
Source: Unsplash Your parents didn’t pit you against your peers or siblings to boost your confidence. Instead, they focused on your unique strengths and progress. This approach helps children develop self-worth without feeling the need to be better than everyone else.
8. They valued kindness over competition.
Rather than pushing you to always be the best, your parents prioritised being kind and considerate. They celebrated moments where you helped someone or showed generosity. The emphasis on kindness helps balance ambition with compassion.
9. They made you contribute at home.
You weren’t treated like royalty at home. You had chores and responsibilities, teaching you that everyone needs to pitch in. Knowing you had to do your part kept you from feeling entitled to special treatment. Responsibility builds a sense of teamwork and fairness.
10. They corrected rude or entitled behaviour.
When you acted entitled or disrespectful, your parents didn’t let it slide. They called out the behaviour and explained why it wasn’t okay. Correcting these moments early on helps kids develop self-awareness and learn to treat people well.
11. They taught you to appreciate what you have.
Gratitude was a regular part of your upbringing. Your parents encouraged you to say “thank you” and appreciate the little things. They might have reminded you of those less fortunate, teaching you that privilege isn’t a reason for arrogance.
12. They supported your individuality.
Your parents let you pursue your interests and passions without forcing you to conform. They celebrated who you were, not who they wanted you to be. Having the freedom to be yourself builds authentic confidence rather than a need to prove superiority.
13. They taught you to celebrate other people’s successes as much as your own.
Instead of feeling threatened by other people’s achievements, you learned to genuinely celebrate them. Your parents showed you that someone else’s success doesn’t diminish your own. That mindset helps you form supportive relationships without jealousy or one-upmanship.
14. They encouraged self-reflection.
Your parents helped you think about your actions and how they affected other people. They encouraged questions like, “Did you handle that well?” or “How could you improve?” The practice of self-reflection fosters growth and keeps arrogance in check.
