The Power of Quiet Confidence: The Advantages of Being Understated

People mistakenly conclude that confidence is only about an outward display or public performance, like being the most gregarious, charming person at the party. Some of the most confident people are the quietest people in the room. Confidence and extroversion are not directly correlated. Confidence can exist in individuals who are introverted or extroverted.

Quiet confidence means people can be themselves without feeling the need to speak often or prove themselves to others.

One of my best friends is just such a confident person; he may not speak much at all. You may see him standing alone at a party in a corner, and some people would incorrectly assume that he is uncomfortable or might think, “Look at that poor guy over there in the corner all alone.” But the truth is, he is just standing there comfortably by himself observing the rest of the party. That is confidence too. 

Some of the most confident people are actually the quietest people in the room, demonstrating what is known as "quiet confidence." Quiet confidence is a type of confidence that allows individuals to be themselves without feeling the need to speak often or prove themselves to others. It's about being comfortable in your own skin and having trust in your abilities and decisions, regardless of external validation or recognition. This type of confidence is often associated with introverts, who are naturally more reserved in social settings and prefer to observe and reflect before speaking.

Research has shown that quiet confidence can be just as impactful as outgoing confidence. In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that quiet leaders were perceived as equally competent as their more extroverted counterparts, and were even seen as more trustworthy and morally upright.

Another study published in the Journal of Research in Personality found that introverts who displayed quiet confidence were more likely to achieve success in their personal and professional lives compared to introverts who lacked confidence. This is because quiet confidence allows individuals to avoid the need for constant validation, instead relying on their own inner strengths and convictions to guide them.

It's important to note that quiet confidence is not the same as shyness or insecurity. Shy individuals often lack confidence and feel nervous or self-conscious in social situations, while individuals with quiet confidence are comfortable in their own skin and trust in their abilities.

Confidence is not solely about being the loudest or most outgoing person in the room. Quiet confidence is just as important and can be just as impactful in personal and professional situations. By embracing their own unique qualities and trusting in their abilities, individuals with quiet confidence can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their goals.

About the author:  Elle Russ is a #1 bestselling author, world-renowned thyroid health expert, and master coach. Take her FREE Confidence Masterclass HERE

Sources:

• Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, "The Quiet Leader: An Exploratory Study of Quiet Influence in Organizations"
• Journal of Research in Personality, "The Relationships Among Introversion, Quiet Self-esteem, and Life Satisfaction"