Walter Bond may be able to put this in simpler terms “Confidence is arrogance under control” But is it that simple? Confidence has always been taken as an attribute while arrogance is a negative trait. Whether you are arrogant or simply confident and if you take it as a positive or a negative trait, is your decision only. There is a very fine line that differentiates one from another. What is important is to know where you belong and change if you need to.
Do you know everything or is there more to learn?
A confident person will always listen first. They believe there is always something new to learn. The views of others are important. Whereas, an arrogant person would rather flaunt the knowledge. They act as if they know everything and thus no opinion is worth listening to.
Do you talk about yourself or would listen to others too?
Arrogance always beings in bragging rights. Arrogant person would always take pride in their achievements. In order to seek the spotlight for their own abilities and skills, they tend to suppress and ignore others. They have an opinion that in order to rise up other must be put down.
Condescending language or through their body language, they can make their colleagues feel less important.
While, in a meeting a confident person will always make sure that the entire team is in focus-bringing out each member’s contribution into limelight. Team work is always encouraged, keeping in mind everyone’s skills in mind by a confident person.
Do you have a positive attitude or are governed by fear?
Confidence does not need validation or affirmation. A confident person is not governed by fear or criticism, they might not be the best at everything, but they accept it as it is.
Arrogance on the other hand sometimes makes the person go out of their way to get validated. It makes them feel better about themselves. They act so because they are highly concerned about how others perceive them!
Do you accept your mistake readily?
Flaws are there to accept and learn to correct them. Arrogance is being reluctant to accept one’s mistake. Blaming on someone else is how arrogant person stays in control.
Confidence comes from accepting and owing up to their mistakes. They accept suggestions and help to improve. A confident person would also be willing to guide others and not rub it in on their mistakes.
Confidence is an inbuilt strength. It comes from a secure place. Whereas arrogant person would only become proud and treat people like pauper. Confidence comes from teaching others and learning in the process. It is up to you to decide which statement is correct for you-
“Those who can’t do, Teach!”
or
“Lead by example!”
Photo by Moose Photos from Pexels
A mother of two, Preeti Bhandari is a colloquial writer. She believes in simple living which reflects in her writings. As the Editor of Narisakti, she intends to use her vast experience to propel this platform to a cult status among entrepreneurial networks.
When not writing she is quilling, both with paper and thoughts.
That was a really good read. Yes, confidence is not arrogance no matter how many people mistake one for the other
Thank you…