The unlikely partnership between humility and confidence

Let’s start with figuring out what the difference is between confidence, arrogance, and taking a look at what humility really is.

Confidence vs Arrogance

Confidence according to dictionary.com is defined as “the belief and trust you have in yourself and your abilities”. While arrogance is defined as “making claims that you are superior and more important than others” – in other words you are entitled.

Humbleness

Being humble is defined as not being proud and arrogant but modest.

Often times the loudest voice in the room is usually seen as the confident person. While the quiet, reserved and often humble person is seen as a push-over and a weakling. Humbleness is often seen as a form of weakness. Let’s look at a different take on humbleness.

Who would you feel most comfortable with? Someone who is willing to see you as an equal even though they may have much more experience and knowledge than you? Those people who are humble enough to willingly impart their knowledge to help you become a better person - without seeing it as a threat to their existence.

Or do you prefer someone who thinks they have all the knowledge and let’s everyone know but their actions don’t match? They believe they are superior to you and don’t want to share their knowledge with you because you might decrease their value.

The effect of arrogant people

Many times, the overconfident often arrogant people seem to make it their life mission to make you feel inadequate. Even though you are good enough and have what it takes, the obtrusive thoughts in your mind will say: “But … but let’s look at the “facts” here… this person can do this and that – what can I do? This person has these and these qualifications and this much experience … I am nowhere close. This person is right - I really am not good enough.”

Would you believe me if I tell you that humility will get you further in life in terms of your work and relationships?

A beautiful illustration

Aesop’s Fable about “The Tortoise and the Hare” provides a good illustration. The Tortoise and the Hare are in competition with each other to see who can win the race. Hare is loud and in everyones face - being arrogant and egotistical to everyone. Bragging that he is undoubtedly going to be the winner. Tortoise is humble, meek, and slow (of course). Seen by others as weak. Everybody believed that Hare would win loose hands. But in the end Tortoise crosses the finish line first.

Godfidence

Maybe, at times you see yourself as inferior to others, as the runt of the litter. But if you have confidence in God and the humility to trust in Him. Seeing yourself as someone who has been created for a purpose and equal to others you have Godfidence.

Godfidence is when you do not rely on yourself and your own abilities. You do not see yourself as being better than others. You see yourself through God’s eyes as is made evident in the Bible. And with God nothing is impossible! He can help you become the person you were meant to be. He can help you build mental grit and resilience to overcome the curve balls life throws at you. With Godfidence you can achieve more than you think or ask.

Humility + Confidence in God = Godfidence

Coaching can help

Sometimes you just need to have a conversation with someone to help you realise your worth. Talking to a coach can really help you see things differently when you feel overwhelmed by the obstacles in your way.