Pride can sneak into our hearts in many ways, and it often shows through our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. Here are 41 simple questions to help you check if pride might be hiding in your life:
41 Simple Signs of Pride
- Do you think you’re better than others who aren’t as smart, rich, well-spoken, or successful as you?
- Do you feel like you’re more spiritual than your spouse or others in your church?
- Do you judge people who live differently than you—how they dress, raise their kids, or what entertainment they enjoy?
- Are you quick to point out other people’s faults and talk about them to others?
- Do you often speak harshly or with a sharp tongue?
- Do you regularly correct or criticize your spouse, pastor, or leaders (like teachers or coaches)?
- Do you spend a lot of time and effort on how you look—your clothes, hair, makeup, weight, or body shape?
- Do you feel proud of how busy you are or how much you get done each day?
- Do you crave praise or approval from others?
- Do you love to argue?
- Do you always think your way is the best or only way?
- Do you get offended or hurt easily?
- Do you try to make yourself seem better than you really are? (Would your church friends be surprised if they saw how you act at home?)
- Do you struggle to admit when you’re wrong?
- Is it hard for you to confess your mistakes to God or other people (not just in general, but the real details)?
- Do you find it difficult to share your real struggles or spiritual needs with others?
- Are you uncomfortable praying out loud with others?
- Are you very shy, to the point that it keeps you from connecting with people?
- Do you avoid talking to new people at church?
- Do you get annoyed when asked to help your family, parents, or others?
- Do you get defensive when someone corrects you?
- Are you a perfectionist? Do you get upset when others aren’t?
- Do you like to control others—your spouse, kids, friends, or coworkers?
- Do you often interrupt people when they’re talking?
- Does your husband feel like your faith makes him feel small or not good enough?
- Does your husband feel like he can never meet your expectations of what a “good husband” should be?
- Do you complain a lot—about the weather, your health, your job, or your church?
- Do you talk about yourself a lot?
- Are you more focused on your own problems than other people’s?
- Do you worry too much about what others think of you or your family?
- Do you forget to say thank you for small things—to God or others?
- Do you often skip prayer and reading the Bible?
- Do you feel hurt when no one notices or thanks you for what you’ve done?
- Do you get upset if your opinion isn’t asked before a decision is made?
- Do you dislike being told what to do or following rules?
- Do you feel insecure because of your looks, education, or financial situation?
- Do you avoid certain events because you’re scared of being embarrassed?
- Do you stay away from people who seem “better” than you?
- Do you feel shy about inviting people to your home because it’s small or simple?
- Is it hard for you to ask for help when you need it—either practical help or spiritual support?
- When was the last time you told someone, “I was wrong. Please forgive me”? (If it’s been over a month, take note!)
Now ask yourself—did any of these questions make you think of someone else instead of yourself?
Or are you thinking, “None of these really apply to me”?
If so, that might be a sign of pride too. Recognizing it in ourselves is the first step toward humility and growth.