"Anyone who takes himself too seriously always runs the risk of looking ridiculous; anyone who can consistently laugh at himself does not"

Vaclav Havel's quote highlights a profound insight into the nature of self-awareness and humility. At its core, the statement juxtaposes 2 contrasting approaches to life: taking oneself too seriously versus maintaining the capability to make fun of oneself.

The very first part of the quote, "Anyone who takes himself too seriously constantly runs the risk of looking absurd", recommends that an overinflated sense of self-importance can cause unwittingly ending up being a topic of ridicule. When people are overly concerned with their image, status, or viewpoints, they may become blind to their own defects and the absurdity of particular situations. This rigidity can lead to an exaggerated reaction to trivial matters, thus exposing the person to humiliation or mockery. By taking oneself too seriously, an individual may construct walls of pretension, limiting their perspective and making them resistant to positive criticism or alternative perspectives.

In contrast, the second part of the quote, "anyone who can consistently make fun of himself does not", emphasizes the worth of self-deprecating humor and humbleness. When one can acknowledge and accept their flaws with humor, it shows a level of confidence and self-awareness that disarms criticism. This ability to make fun of oneself cultivates resilience because it changes potential sources of embarrassment into simple stepping stones on the journey of personal development. Such people are less likely to be bogged down by the fear of judgment or failure, as they understand errors are a natural part of the human experience and do not define their worth.

Additionally, the capability to make fun of oneself is a testament to emotional intelligence-- it signifies an understanding that self-regard is not lessened by self-mockery. This viewpoint clears a path to authentic connections with others, as it encourages openness, empathy, and the acknowledgment of shared human experiences.

In summary, Havel's quote encourages us to approach life with a balance of humility and humor. By doing so, we avoid the risks of extreme severity and instead welcome a more flexible and happy presence.