“Timidity is mistrust of self, and proceeds not from modesty but from conceit. A man is timid because he is afraid of not appearing to his best advantage.”
What this quote means
This bold quote overturns the common idea that shyness is a form of modesty. According to the author, shyness actually stems from excessive pride: we fear not living up to the image we want to project. It is a form of self-preoccupation, not modesty. This perspective invites us to overcome shyness by building our confidence and detaching from others' opinions, rather than hiding behind false humility.
How to apply it daily
When you feel shy, refocus on your message and on others, rather than on the image you project.
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