I find it amusing, of all the people I’ve met that have had a diagnosed mental illness, none have in my opinion been arrogant. Why would this be? Could there be a common factor among the emotionally unstable that does not allow them to be seen or act in an arrogant way? I think so.
In a sliding scale it could be assumed we are within the scope of withdrawn and confident. Confidence is when we have sufficient knowledge on topics and can convey that knowledge to other people. An “air” of confidence results. We can rely on our own abilities and opinions then we are confident within ourselves.
Arrogance is when one has knowledge of topics but believes other people have less knowledge and portrays grandeur.
We all know what withdrawn means and it doesn't sound positive. However seeking withdrawal could be voluntary as a means for example of finding safety. Some of us are comfortable with our own company or limited in the numbers of people in contact and the quality of people we associate with. On-line forums such as this one offers anonymousity which can be wonderful for the withdrawn because one can regulate ones input from zero to regular.
So most of us should have a goal. To become confident within ourselves enough so that we possess knowledge of our illnesses, emotions and restrictions to the point whereby we know all facets of our condition. That alone would give us awareness enough to continue on with life better than it has. It would mean we are improving, advancing and in many ways we are conquering our fears brought about from doubt, lack of information and knowledge.
Once confident we can then pass onto others our store of information. There is one proviso- that we don’t emit an air of grandeur or we would have slid onto into the arrogant category. People don’t like arrogance so that would work against us. Learning, for many new members is right here within the pages of this forum. Each night you could choose two threads, read, learn and digest them to add to your knowledge, for knowledge obtained about yourself and why you are like you are is one of the best tools for recovery. Remember, recovery is not likely 100% but a level of happiness, contentment, as much stability you are capable of achieving and a minimum of social communication.
Research, listening to others mixed with professional guidance can be a potent mix to point you in the right direction to becoming confident.
Confidence through knowledge is good.
Tony WK
