Calling a Duck a Duck!

There’s a thin line between confidence and arrogance. Nobody enjoys being in the company of an arrogant person. Even arrogant people will admit they dislike pomposity — in others anyway.

Arrogant people view themselves as superior, always know what’s better for others, ae incisive in their transactions with others, never admit their mistakes, and revel in the blunders of others. Confident people on the other hand believe in themselves and in their talents, are open about their objectives and potential, are gifted competitors, aren’t afraid to recognize their missteps, and most certainly help others correct their slip-ups.

Confidence is a personal trait. A self-assured person doesn’t care what others think about him. The arrogant dude, however, will be very conscious of how the world treats him. It is what fuels his smugness. He is the centre of his world, which can often be a symptom of a buried feeling of inferiority. The only way he can value himself is by putting down those who surround him. The confident person is therefore a sea of tranquility next to the antagonistic narcissist.

Unfortunately, our society encourages shrewd business deals and below-the-belt punches, which aren’t the niche of alter boys. Confidence alone can and should get the job done, but it’s often easy to fall prey to pomposity.

If what you’re seeking is lasting relationships, long-term success and quality of life in and out of the workplace, then you will be better served to forego the pompous acts of the arrogant for the humility and quiet confidence displayed by true leaders. So let it be written, so let it be done.