I know how to spot real confidence. Look for people who are fluid with status—who allow themselves to be the butt of a joke, or accept criticism, but also avoid false modesty, and inhabit the spotlight when it falls on them.

Humility is a competitive advantage. The most powerful truths are those that our hyper-stimulated egoic societies have discarded. The most effective people are those that can develop a profound relationship with what others deem boring.

To get status, you have to give up status.

I know how to spot real confidence. Look for people who are fluid with status—who allow themselves to be the butt of a joke, or accept criticism, but also avoid false modesty, and inhabit the spotlight when it falls on them. One might call this a balance between dignity and humility. Pro tip: people who always cling to high status aren’t confident... See more