Adrian Volenik
Some people have zero self-awareness, but at the same time, they’re also arrogant and insecure.
Still, that doesn’t hold them back from spewing things that are hurtful, disappointing, and even harmful to others.
If you want to know what these phrases are, keep reading to find out why they work and what we can learn from them.
1) “I know that already”
This phrase simply shuts down any and all valuable discussions. Imagine you’re sharing something with someone, maybe a cool fact or an interesting idea, and their response is a dismissive “I know that already.”
They’re slamming the door on any opportunity for a shared exchange of information or an enjoyable conversation.
People who throw this phrase around perhaps don’t realize that it comes off as arrogant.
Sure, everyone has their knowledge, but there’s a more engaging way to navigate these moments.
Instead of shutting down the conversation, why not say something like, “Yeah, I’ve come across that too. What do you think about it?”
This opens up a chance to discuss and learn from each other, turning a potential roadblock into a conversational highway.
Here’s another banger:
2) “That’s just common sense”
Sometimes, we fall into a trap that the things we know, everyone else knows, too. Just because something is common sense in our own little bubble doesn’t mean everyone knows that.
It’s as if we believe everyone should automatically know what we know, making others feel small for not being on the same page.
I have to admit that this is a regular pitfall of mine. I read a lot and am interested in diverse topics.
But not everyone follows the things I do, and they probably don’t know some of the stuff I take for granted. At the same time, I’m not aware of the many things they know.
So, the key is being open to others and the fact they aren’t introduced to the things we take for granted and as common sense, right?
3) “You’re overthinking it”
Suggesting that someone is overthinking unintentionally trivializes their thought process. This can make you feel like your ideas aren’t being taken seriously.
If you have an exciting idea or problem to solve, and instead of getting support, you hear “You’re overthinking it,” it might make you doubt yourself. Or even feel like your thoughts aren’t reasonable.
People who use this phrase don’t realize the impact it can have on your confidence and creativity.
Sometimes, ideas need a bit of exploration and consideration, and that’s perfectly okay. So, if someone tells you that you’re overthinking, don’t let it bring you down.
Your thoughts and ideas matter, and it’s okay to give them the attention they deserve.
4) “I could do that in my sleep”
When someone says this, they’re claiming the task is extremely easy. Arrogance kicks in because they’re essentially saying, “Look at how easy this is for me compared to you.”
It’s a subtle way of showing off. On the other hand, it’s also a sign of insecurity because they want to highlight their competence, maybe to mask the self-doubt they have.
They don’t realize that, by saying this, they’re exposing their brashness and insecurity and not helping the situation.
5) “It’s not that hard”
Similar to the above, they’re trying to show their own proficiency or make something seem easy.
However, this can come off as dismissive and unintentionally make others feel inadequate.
Instead of promoting a supportive environment, it makes people hesitant to ask for help or share their struggles.
So, what happens if a boss or a manager says something like this to their subordinates?
Well, they obviously won’t ask anyone for help because they don’t want to look stupid or incompetent.
6) “You wouldn’t understand”
This phrase is the epitome of arrogance, isn’t it? They’re so smart that even explaining something to you is futile. You just wouldn’t understand the topic.
Now, how would that make you feel? Terrible, right? That’s why this phrase is extremely tone-deaf and inconsiderate to others.
Granted, there are many topics you or I perhaps wouldn’t be able to understand, but that’s no way to dismiss us.
Maybe if they used, “It’s a bit tricky to explain, but I’ll do my best to explain,” they wouldn’t come off as arrogant or even insecure because they probably can’t explain it well in the first place.
7) “I told you so”
“I told you so” is like saying, “See, I was right all along!” This phrase is often used by people who want to show off their command.
Instead of helping or understanding, they make the mistake worse. This can come from insecurity, wanting to feel superior by pointing out others’ errors. It can also make the person who made the mistake feel small.
So, using this phrase isn’t helpful for learning or working together because it makes others feel wrong instead of finding solutions.
8) “I’m always right”
The “I’m always right” mindset makes others less willing to share their thoughts, stopping meaningful conversations and opportunities for growth.
In real life, no one’s always right. We all make mistakes, and we all have areas to learn and grow.
Embracing this fact not only makes you more approachable but also creates an environment where everyone can bring their unique insights to the table.
So, instead of clinging to “I’m always right,” it’s best to embrace the adventure of learning together.
9) “You’re too sensitive”
Oh, boy. This one’s something, right? If you want to hurt someone, simply dismiss their thoughts, ideas, and emotions with the classic “You’re too sensitive/emotional.”
Who do you imagine saying this to someone? Perhaps a parent to their kid or an older colleague to their younger peer.
I think it mostly comes from authoritative figures who like to think of themselves as pillars of society.
These types dislike open discussions and dismiss anyone who disagrees or has different priorities.
10) “Why are you making a big deal out of it?”
When someone says, “Why are you making a big deal out of it?” they’re downplaying the importance of whatever you’re talking about.
The people who use it are feeling a bit insecure or want to seem like they have everything under control.
They might not realize it, but this comes off as dismissive or not understanding of your feelings.
This makes you feel like your feelings or concerns don’t matter, and that’s not a great sensation.
11) “Been there, done that”
Okay, we get it. You’re a person who has had some experience, and you like showing off that fact.
No one’s better than you, and whatever anyone has to share with you isn’t that interesting. You’ve done it all.
That’s why you get bored when others start sharing their experiences. You’ve been through that already, and there’s nothing new they can add to the conversation.
Still, in some situations, it’s better to fake interest in other people’s experiences. Otherwise, people will start avoiding you at all costs (if they aren’t already, that is).
12) “You should’ve known better”
“You should’ve known better” is a phrase that can slip out without us realizing its impact. It often pops up when someone makes a mistake, and instead of offering support, it blames them.
People who are feeling insecure or trying to appear superior throw this phrase around without really thinking.
But that’s the easy thing to do, right? It’s easier to dismiss than to come up with a piece of advice or a way to help.
Final thoughts
It should come as no surprise that arrogant and insecure people project their flaws onto others.
They often have no self-awareness and say whatever comes to their mind first without thinking of other people’s emotions.
Truthfully, I think they’re cringe, and I don’t engage much with these sorts of people. And if you want to keep your sanity, maybe you should do the same.
