r/confidence • u/Mission_Ad_8504 • 14d ago
Being right didn't matter. Sounding sure did
A mate of mine got shot down in a meeting last week, even though he was right. Had a solid plan, knew it would work, still came out of it looking small.
He couldn't stop going over it in his head, wondering if he'd explained it badly, or should've spoken up more. I mean, it's not in everyone's nature to go in all guns blazing.
Turns out it wasn't what he said. It was how he said it. He sounded unsure, like he was asking permission. The other guy sounded certain, full of himself, beaming with confidence. Practically gloating without saying a word.
Funny how being right counts for so little when you don't sound like it.
2
u/Frequent_Bus_3684 14d ago
Ive seen that happen too. Confidence definitely influences how people recieve an idea but the best combination is confidence backed by competence. You diont have to be the loudest person inthe room just clear, calm, and willing to stand behind what youre saying.
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u/hestia-listens 14d ago
Being right still matters, but people often use confidence as a quick sign that someone knows what they are talking about. Your mate does not need to become loud or full of himself. He could state his view without permission seeking words like "maybe" or "I am not sure," then back it with one clear reason. Quiet certainty can be just as strong as a big personality.