Pause to Progress

Someone said , “Hoogmoed komt voor de val”—a Dutch saying that means “Pride comes before a fall.” It’s a phrase meant to caution against overconfidence, but it got me thinking.

Why is it that confidence is often mistaken for arrogance?

In today’s world, particularly in professional spaces, it’s easy to walk a fine line between appearing self-assured and being perceived as boastful. As I prepare to take on a new role on a complete whole other playing field, i back to being a beginner at something new and, I’ve decided to press pause on some of my greatest joys: public speaking, giving workshops etc...

Why? Because taking the time to immerse myself in this new role is essential to future success. I want to onboard fully, master my responsibilities, and reach a point where my work feels intuitive—where I can confidently say I could do 60% of it in my sleep.

And that’s what work-fun balance is all about: investing the time needed in the area that’s crucial and pausing everything else to eliminate distractions. It’s the discipline to focus on what matters most in the moment so that everything else can flourish later.

The Journey of Confidence

When you’re new to a career, a role, or an industry, confidence doesn’t appear overnight. It’s built:

• Skill by skill.
• Day by day.
• Win by win.

There will be moments of self-doubt, external critique, and comparison. And sometimes, people may misinterpret your growing confidence as arrogance. But here’s the truth:

Confidence is the result of knowing your worth and proving it to yourself, not to others.

Balancing Humility and Confidence

The advice I wish someone had given me earlier is this:

• Be humble enough to recognize that you are replaceable.
• But be confident enough to know that no one can replace YOU.

You bring your unique perspective, experiences, and creativity to the table. That’s your edge.

But never let that edge dull your ability to listen, learn, and grow.

To the New Career Joiners and Transitioners

Whether you’re starting your first job, pivoting to a new career, or stepping into a leadership role, remember this:

1. Your value is a work in progress. It’s okay to not have all the answers at the start. Give yourself permission to learn.
2. Celebrate small wins. They are the building blocks of your confidence.
3. Don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. Everyone starts somewhere. What matters is how you show up, every day, ready to grow regardless of the setbacks you encounter.
4. Find your community. And even though confidence is the result of knowing your worth and proving it to yourself, not to others, being surround with people who inspire you and cheer you on is a must. Their belief in you will fuel your belief in yourself.

A Final Word

“Pride comes before a fall” serves as a reminder to stay grounded, no matter how far you rise i get it .

But let’s rewrite that narrative a bit: Pride doesn’t have to lead to a fall if it’s rooted in humility, diligence, and a willingness to grow.

So here’s my advice: Stay confident. Stay curious. And always remember that while others may question your path, your journey is uniquely yours.

Now I’m curious—what’s one piece of advice or lesson that shaped your career journey? Drop it in the comments; I’d love to learn from you.

Let’s grow together.