People often say, be confident, until you are confident, then they say it's conceit.
I don't think it's a secret to anyone who knows me, that I am confident, but what many do not know is that it took work to get to the confidence level that I am at, that allows me to simply be me without worrying about external validation, so I won't allow my confidence to be shaken by any who chooses to misinterpret it.
The thing about confident people is this, they don't think they are better than others, they are confident in themselves without comparison to anyone else, they are simply running their own race unbothered by the doubters and the haters.
People often criticize what they don't understand or what they don't see in themselves! Demi Lovato sings a song called "What's wrong with being confident" and to that I say, absolutely nothing! In fact, someone else's confidence should not bother you, so instead of being offended by someone's confidence, be inspired, because you don't know what it cost them to get there.
I know so many people that are too paralyzed to move, to speak, to dress because they are so afraid of what others will think and say, but the funny thing is, no matter what you do, someone will always have something to say, and it is simply impossible to please everyone, so do what you have to do and be confident.
I am not saying that it will be easy, but little by little every day, remind yourself that you are worthy, that you are good enough, that you don't need to compare yourself to others, that your only competition is yourself, and that you will never be perfect because perfection is not your goal, you are seeking growth and excellence.
I recognize that this might be easier for some than others, but that is why it is so important to speak kindly to yourself, to celebrate your wins big and small!
I am confident in me not because I have never failed, but because not only do I love myself, but I also like myself and I know that I am unique and that wherever or whatever I go or do, I add value, and that is something no one can ever take away from me, and I wish that for everyone reading this! Do not give anyone the power to shake your confidence.
And I will end with this, which was one of my favorite quotes from Coach Prime, "Do not allow my confidence to offend your insecurities."