In the heat of your career’s ups and downs, it’s easy to inflate the importance of both your successes and failures. During high points, we might feel invincible, often leading to overcommitment or treating others poorly, driven by pride. On the other hand, when faced with setbacks, it’s tempting to let momentary failures overshadow the great work we've done, leading to self-doubt and destructive decisions. The key to navigating these emotional extremes is to shift your focus from yourself to your mission and to helping others. When you prioritize service over self, you avoid the pitfalls of pride and stay grounded in humility. Remember, a focus on others not only helps you stay balanced but also leads to more meaningful and lasting success in your programming career.