Do You Have Entitlement Issues
To be entitled means to believe you are more deserving of special treatment than other people. Essentially, you think the world revolves around you and that it shouldn’t be any other way. Entitlement is usually associated with personality disorders like Antisocial or Narcissistic Personality disorder. In others, entitlement can develop as a coping mechanism for insecurity, trauma, or abuse. You might have Entitlement issues if…
You Don’t Understand The Word “No”
To you, it isn’t a far stretch to get what you want, when you want it. Other people’s capacity, boundaries, or willingness is an afterthought to you because everyone should be able to meet your needs. When someone tells you “no” you don’t hear it as a two letter sentence. Instead, you hear “no” as an invitation to argue, “Why not?” Not taking no for an answer is commonly disguised as being powerful, determined, and a leader. In some cases this is true. However, there is a fine line between being entitled and being determined. If you have a disregard for others and can’t pause to take into consideration why the answer might be “no”, you might be having an entitlement problem.
You’re Not Grateful
You aren’t usually one to say thank you or express your thanks for anything. When you are confronted about this you usually make a remark about why should you say thank you? It’s a waiter’s job to serve you, a parent’s job to raise you, and a treatment center’s job to cater to your needs. Unfortunately, that’s not how the world works. Lacking in gratitude is a symptom of self-centeredness and entitlement. An inability to feel gratitude means you are not appreciative of the world around you. For those seeking recovery for drug and alcohol addiction, that usually means relapse. If you cannot appreciate your sobriety and the importance it has in your life, you’ll have no trouble throwing it away.
You Meet A Lot Of Conflict
Treatment is a time where people start recognizing themselves and others in a more honest way. Though your entitlement keeps you self-centered, others can still see you. You might notice you’re meeting a lot of conflict among peers and staff every day. Entitled behavior usually doesn’t sit well with people. Before continuing to blame others, take a look at how your perspective might be harming others. The good news is, entitlement can be changed.
Growing Out Of Entitlement
- Listen more
- Volunteer or be of service
- Say Thank You
- Keep a Gratitude List
- Accept “No” As A Final Answer
- Dig Deeper In Self Reflection
Harmony Place offers treatment for co-occurring disorders of substance abuse and mental illness. Our programs approach treatment from a holistic and scientifically backed foundation. We provide a continuum of care from inpatient to transitional living. Call us today for more information at 1-855-627-1417.