Yet overcompensating for this fear can have the opposite
effect if others are driven away by what they see as an immodest
attitude or sense that you are urgently trying to prove yourself. The
simple desire to be judged smart by both new and old acquaintances can
cause you to reject your true self and adopt an affected persona. But in
trying so persistently to project an image of supreme intelligence or
capability, you deny others the opportunity to become acquainted with
the real and terrific individual you truly are.
The fear that others will perceive you as unintelligent can further
influence your behavior, causing you to consciously avoid speaking your
mind or asking questions. You may feel uncomfortable participating in
activities if there is a chance that you won't excel or taking part in
discussions with others who may have more knowledge than you. In
essence, you become ashamed of who you are and attempt to encase your
identity in a veneer that others will find pleasing and impressive. It
is, however, a common fear -- one experienced by almost everyone at some
point in their lives. The simplest way to combat it is to make a
personal commitment to being yourself in your home, your workplace, and
among strangers.
Ask yourself how you believe the individuals you
encounter will react should you speak awkwardly, need clarification, or
fail to be the best at some activity. By being yourself, you will
discover that all people make mistakes and ask questions and that others
will like and respect you because they recognize the goodness in your
soul....<<<Read The Full Article Here>>>...
