I’m a firm believer that an athlete should have a certain amount of swag. But there is a big difference between swag and arrogance, and arrogance is a dangerous place to be.
The Dictionary defines it as: “to exaggerate one's own worth or importance; having or displaying a sense self-importance; unwarranted pride...”
Arrogance is thinking you are smarter or better than someone else. Arrogance always displays itself as being “er”, if you will, of others. You know, better, smarter, wiser, prettier, holier, etc...
Arrogance can sometimes be a huge problem among some athletes, and in-turn, can often cause chemistry problems among teammates.
The problem is that most people who are arrogant, don’t know they are. It’s those around them that see it and take notice. It is not simply pride or boasting, but it is an attitude of the heart. A person can be proud or boastful in a particular area of her life but not arrogant. In fact, all of us have areas in which we are proud. Arrogance, however, is a heart full of pride, a heart that looks down on others, and a heart that constantly judges others.
Arrogance is in reality self-righteousness. It was the heart of the Pharisee that angered Christ so much:
“The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men -- robbers, evildoers, adulterers -- or even like this tax collector.” (Luke 18:11)
Be careful that your swag doesn’t turn into arrogance, which can easily blind you to what others see.
(thanks Ken Grizzell)
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