Pride can have both positive and negative effects on your emotional well-being, depending on what kind of pride you’re experiencing.
Positive (authentic) pride:
Feeling proud of your accomplishments, growth, or resilience can boost your self-esteem.
It fosters motivation, a sense of belonging, and confidence.
It encourages you to keep improving and can strengthen relationships when shared with humility.
Negative (hubristic) pride:
When pride turns into arrogance or an inflated sense of superiority, it can isolate you from others.
You may become defensive, unable to accept feedback, and blind to your own weaknesses.
This kind of pride creates internal tension, fear of failure, and stress because you tie your worth to being “better” or “above” others.
Connecting to “Pride Goes Before a Fall”
The saying “Pride goes before a fall” (from Proverbs 16:18) warns that excessive pride or arrogance often leads to downfall. Here’s how it ties into emotional well-being:
When you overestimate your abilities or ignore advice because of pride, you’re more likely to make mistakes.
If you refuse to admit vulnerability or seek help, you risk burnout or emotional collapse.
When your identity is wrapped up in appearing perfect or superior, any setback can feel crushing, leading to shame, anxiety, or depression.
In essence, unchecked pride can set you up for emotional hardship — not because pride itself is bad, but because it can blind you to reality, making the eventual fall more painful.
Healthy pride builds emotional strength.
Arrogant pride can destabilise you emotionally, making failures hit harder.
Remembering “pride goes before a fall” can serve as a reminder to stay grounded, open, and humble, which ultimately protects your well-being.