Too many people look down upon others and treat them as less than equal. I see it happen when someone believes they are smarter than another person, more athletic, have more knowledge in a subject, and the like. It is important to note that cockiness differs immensely from confidence. The fine line between the two separates the humble from the arrogant.
From meeting a wide variety of personalities, I have come to learn that everyone we meet has their own wow-factors. We all possess talents and passions that can not be compared and contrasted to create a food chain. We never know what someone has to offer in terms of wisdom until we actually get to know them. I’ve met people who struggle with school, but are the kindest, most understanding souls. I’ve met people who struggle with social interactions but ace every test they’ve ever taken. Our flaws are what make us all human, and again, cannot place us above or below others.
One of my favorite quotes is “I was raised to treat the janitor with the same respect as the CEO" (author unknown). Whether or not we believe we are better than someone, treating others with respect should never be below us. In the end, humility is key in ensuring a life that is not only fulfilling to whoever lives it but also betters the lives of others.
Just because you scored higher on an exam doesn’t mean you will be a better ____ (insert profession here). Many components make up what makes a good teacher, doctor, lawyer, etc. Additionally, the world needs a variety of people with a variety of skills.
I find it concerning when those with high-level careers look down upon others with what society has set out as lower level jobs. We need people in every field. The world needs more than a bunch of students who think they have to obtain PhDs.
Obviously, success is admirable, but who are we to judge a happy individual who is living their best life. Our parents tried to instill in us that different is not bad, and we seemed to grasp the concept for the most part. The concept is lost sometimes, though, when cockiness replaces confidence.
Confidence is not to be discarded. It is important to set ourselves high standards in order to achieve our goals. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded, well-intentioned people creates an atmosphere that breeds prosperity. The world does still need people with PhDs who aim to solve some of society’s largest problems.
That doesn’t mean anyone is above showing respect to or spending time with those that don’t have as many achievements that show up on paper. Life is not measured by what your resume looks like. It’s a bit more about happiness and how you shared that happiness with others. Work hard. Don’t ever stop working hard. Just don’t ever stop being kind as well.
Leagues are idiotic. We can’t all be in the same league, we aren’t even all playing the same sport. I’d actually say we’re all playing our own unique game, with a playing field that matches no other. Arrogance does not place one above others, it simply inhibits one’s ability to continue learning life lessons.