How Humility Can Still Boast Confidence
"Being humble" is a phrase I use a lot! Having four children in the naturally occurring self-centered ages ranging from 13 to 20, I find it important to remind them that they can stand out, have value and accomplish great things without their success having to be proven and proclaimed to others.
Being a strong person doesn't mean being a boastful one. I want them to understand that humility alone is what can boast confidence. People are drawn to others that are able to express and reflect their skills and knowledge in a modest way. It is foolish for them to think that unless they are willing to be intimidating, arrogant and condescending to others, they will be seen as weak. That is simply not true. The strongest and most confident individuals that I've ever known are the most humble and don't need to prove themselves to anyone, nor would they desire to.
Growing up one of the first things my parents taught me was never to talk about money. A persons value is never measured by what's in their wallet. Their value is measured by who they are and how they treat others. Confident people don't need to flaunt their wealth to gain attention from others but rather attract others regardless of their wealth or status.
QUIET CONFIDENCE COMES FROM GRATITUDE
Humility acknowledges that their personal achievements never have to be proclaimed. Confident people do great things without looking for all the accolades.Their integrity holds them to a higher standard and personal gain that nothing else could compare to.They are still noticed by others but in admiring ways instead of offensive ones.
Quiet confidence comes from appreciation and gratitude rather than manipulation. It can appear to be meek when in reality it's showing respect for others and themselves. Showing gratitude is what will contribute to their success and extending gratitude provides an opportunity to build up other peoples success.
Teaching my children that they can be both humble and strong, is not a one time lesson but rather a lifelong one. Even as an adult it can be difficult at times to hold our tongues or actions in an effort to prove our worth when it isn't immediately spoken or acknowledged. However, it's my job to model what I can for them to make that happen. If achieved, their quiet confidence as adults will not only fill their lives with contentment, value and self-worth but it will also be my reward as their mom.