Tuesday, July 3, 2012

The Difference Between Humility and Insecurity - And Which Will Lead to Success

Insecurity says your writing is awful. Humility says there's still work to be done.

Insecurity tells you everyone else is much better than you. Humility tells you that with the right focus, one day you could be that good.

Insecurity wants you to believe criticism is a personal attack and should be defended. Humility understands another pair of eyes might catch something you don't, so considers any feedback.

Insecurity gets jealous of other people's success. Humility cheers and sets a goal.

Insecurity says what's the point of revising again? Humility says, if I just keep working, one day it will get there.

Insecurity is scared to fail, so fails to try. Humility accepts failure as a risk because success might follow.

Insecurity is bruised by seeking out advice because it means others are better, stronger or more successful, and that's hard. Humility avidly seeks advice because others are better, stronger or more successful, so maybe they know something useful.

Insecurity despairs and gives up. Humility perserveres.

Which do you think is most likely to lead you to success?

Your Turn: How do you turn insecurity into humility? What are the hardest obstacles to overcome?

10 comments:

  1. "Insecurity says what's the point of revising again? Humility says, if I just keep working, one day it will get there."

    ^ THIS! ^ Is awesome. :) Seriously, pretty sure it's my life motto. Gonna get the tattoo over my heart or something. Great post, Aimee.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Girl, this is GOOD. *stars* There is such a balance between the two, but while we're called to be humble, we're definitely NOT called to be insecure, haha. :) Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I couldn't have said it better myself. Beautiful post!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Well said. I'd like to think I'm always filled with humility when it comes to my writing, but insecurity can sneak up on you if you aren't vigilant. Thanks for the reminder of what makes a writer succeed.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Loved the post Aimee. I first thought - yes I am embracing my humility. Then thought being proud of it not exactly humble... LOL. It is a fine line we walk!

    But whatever the case - I am over our old friend insecurity!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're a humble writer, my dear. Last line should have been: Insecurity pretends to be humble. Humble knows when it gets something right. LOL

      Delete
  6. Great post! So true. It's hard not to tumble over the line into insecurity, and important to keep trying even if it's hard - that's the only hope of getting better!

    ReplyDelete
  7. I know this was written some time ago, but it still holds true. Excellent post my dear!

    ReplyDelete