The difference between being Cocky and being Confident

Over the years, I have made some keen observations on behaviors that people display and it is interesting to note where some of the qualities displayed emanate from. I am the kind of person who would not judge a book by its cover. I, most often than not, take time to flip the script and assess the content displayed and thereafter give my verdict. I have come to realize that many people would like to exhibit the attitude of confidence even when it is not necessary. I think it is because that is what the surrounding demands of us.  While growing up, children are forced by their parents to act confident. Even the reserved and not outspoken child is forced to act in a certain manner as to convey confidence. I do believe that this has its pitfalls because a child who is an extrovert might be assumed to be more confident than an introverted child just because the extrovert is more outgoing and more outspoken.

Cambridge English dictionary has defined cocky to mean a person who is confident in a way that is unpleasant and sometimes rude. In other words a person who is cocky is confident but their confidence emanates from their outer world as opposed to their inner world. Research has proven that a person who is cocky uses arrogance to build their self-esteem based on outward sources such as financial privilege or constant praises.

A confident person builds his/her true self-confidence from their inner world. A confident person has far much dealt with his/her inner world to fully understand who they really are and thus be exactly that to the world. Oxford dictionary has defined confident as Feeling or showing confidence in oneself or one's abilities or qualities.

People may ask how you can have confidence without being seen as cocky or arrogant. Simple, deal with your inner world and resolve any issues you may have within. Have a realistic picture of your own traits and abilities and trust yourself enough to face the world.