Two very different things. And also something a lot of people get confused with a lot. Many try to exude confidence through arrogance. I consider myself very confident but at the same time grounded enough to never be arrogant. The difference between the two in my perspective is simple. When your confident about something no matter how sure you are – you look around yourself and never insult or degrade anyone, diplomatically you listen and then you behave the same way you want to be treated. When you’re arrogant, you tend to be insecure of your surroundings and tend to offend others.

Recently, I was at a black tie event and I was introduced to a couple. I didn’t know who they were or the fact they were wealthy (since that doesn’t really matter to me, I’m not really into researching anyone else’s W-2). When the wife looked at me, she saw an unfamiliar face of youth and with her first few comments made it seem as if I didn’t belong there. Later, that evening after learning who I was – she tried to revive things. I never struck a chord with her again. I was polite, smiled and walked away. I guess, that’s an example of knowing who you are and sticking to it (confidently) – rather than let arrogance of others force you to react a certain way.

I’ve been through the phase of having everyone wanting to be around you because of what you have – and not who you are. That phase never appealed to me. Because, life really is too short. If at the end of the day you have a handful of friends and family around you – you end up living a very rich life…

Tags: arrogance, confidence, high society, philosophy