It is really important, especially early in our lives, to clearly define the difference between confidence and arrogance.
On the surface, they can sometimes look similar.
- A confident person stands tall; an arrogant person stands tall.
- A confident person speaks up; an arrogant person speaks up.
But the internal mindset, the engine driving that behavior, is completely different.
And that difference determines whether people want to follow you or run away from you.
What is True Confidence?
I believe confidence is found in people who believe that others are equal to them.
It is a mindset that says: “I’m not better than you. But also, you’re not better than me.”
We’re on the same playing field.
When confident people walk through life thinking in this way, they remain open.
- They are open to new opportunities.
- They are open to learning from other people (because they don’t think they are “above” anyone).
As a result, I believe confident people become more successful because they are constantly absorbing wisdom from the world around them.
What is Arrogance?
Arrogance is the opposite. Arrogant people go through life believing that they are better than others.
They believe they are on a whole other level, and that everyone else is on a lower playing field.
Because they believe this, they go through life closing off their mind and closing off their heart. They aren’t open to new opportunities because they think they already know everything.
They don’t learn from other people because they don’t think other people have anything to teach them.
The “Success” Trap
I used to say that arrogant people don’t succeed, but I actually have to take that statement back.
Sometimes, arrogant people do succeed.
We’ve all seen it, but there’s a catch!
When an arrogant person succeeds, they usually end up standing at the top of the mountain alone and when they do win, everyone around them secretly (or openly) hates them.
A great example of this is my videographer Craig. Arrogant guy. Makes me sick. His name leaves such a bad taste in my mouth that I need a mint just talking about him… (Just kidding Craig, I don’t even like mints.)😉
Confidence vs Arrogance: A Concise Summary
The difference between confidence and arrogance isn’t just about how you feel about yourself; it’s about how you view others.
- Confidence: “We are equals. I can learn from you.”
- Arrogance: “I am better than you. You have nothing to teach me.”
Choose the path of the open mind and you’ll find others will perceive you as confident, inspiring and worth listening to.
Ready to build true confidence?
True confidence comes from competence and knowing how to interact and communicate with the world effectively.
If you want to start building that foundation, I invite you to join my Free Virtual Masterclass. It’s the perfect place to start.
Or, if you are ready to completely transform how you show up in the world, check out my full range of in-person workshops and online communication and public speaking courses.
❤️ Love you Craig
