[jayhuang]

I've been through the same thing. And in a sense, still am. Growing up, I was always a high achiever and always had to be "the best". And for a long time I was. After like 12 years of living this life I placed 2nd in a national chess competition and it devastated me. Who would have known I couldn't be the best at everything? I'm quite lucky to have gotten a wake up call so early on instead of ending up a delusional prick. I was never cocky but at one point, it will get to your head.

Of course many people can tell you how toxic this kind of mentality is, but it's not without benefits. Some people lack motivation and drive, but people with this mentality often have no shortage of that.

It's good you've identified this as something negative and are working to change that. That's step 1. It's not going to happen overnight but it is a long process. Also keep in mind that success means something different to everyone. You might think making 200k a year is somewhat successful, but someone else may be perfectly content and fulfilled volunteering to clean after the elderly/disabled. Having pride in your work is fine, but in the end, human connections have a MUCH more significant impact on your life. Just keep working on yourself (specifically: growth) and being someone people enjoy being around and you'll do great.