10 ways to handle people who act “high and mighty”

From the Personal Branding Blog

There’s a stark line between someone who is genuinely confident and someone who just acts “high and mighty”.

This line is often crossed when individuals with an inflated sense of self-importance start to belittle others.

Dealing with such people can be a real headache, but don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

In this article, I’ll share 10 effective strategies to handle people who act “high and mighty”, without losing your cool or self-respect. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

1) Keep calm and carry on

We’ve all encountered someone who acts “high and mighty”.

It can be tempting to respond to their arrogance with frustration or anger. But trust me, that’s not the way to go.

It’s crucial to maintain your own composure. Responding in kind or losing your cool will only escalate the situation, and it could make you appear unprofessional.

Remember, you’re in control of your own reactions. Don’t let their inflated ego dictate your emotions or actions.

So, when dealing with someone who’s acting all high and mighty, take a deep breath, smile, and keep calm. It’s the first step towards handling such individuals effectively.

2) Set boundaries

This one hits close to home for me.

I recall a time when I had a colleague who loved to show off his knowledge and achievements, often at the expense of others. He would dominate conversations, dismiss ideas, and generally act as though he was superior.

At first, I didn’t know how to handle it. But then I realized that setting boundaries was essential.

I started by firmly but respectfully expressing my thoughts during meetings. If he interrupted or dismissed my ideas, I would calmly remind him that everyone’s input was important and it’s necessary to allow for different perspectives.

It wasn’t easy at first, but over time, he came to respect my boundaries. Remember, it’s crucial to stand up for yourself and not let anyone belittle you or your ideas.

3) Practice empathy

You might be surprised to know that often, people who act “high and mighty” are actually dealing with their own insecurities.

According to psychological studies, individuals who appear arrogant or superior may be overcompensating for feelings of inadequacy or insecurity. In other words, their “high and mighty” act could be a defense mechanism.

Understanding this can help us practice empathy. Instead of getting annoyed or taking their behavior personally, we can try to see things from their perspective. This doesn’t excuse their behavior, but it can help us respond with more patience and understanding.

4) Choose your battles wisely

Not every comment or gesture from someone acting “high and mighty” warrants a reaction.

Sometimes, it’s simply not worth the energy or the potential conflict to respond to every arrogant comment or superior attitude.

It’s important to pick your battles wisely. If their behavior isn’t causing significant harm or disruption, it might be best to let it slide.

However, if they’re undermining you, disrespecting you, or creating a hostile environment, that’s when it’s time to step up, address the issue directly or seek help from a supervisor or HR.

Remember, your peace of mind and self-respect are paramount. Don’t let anyone’s “high and mighty” attitude disturb that.

5) Remember your worth

In the face of someone acting “high and mighty”, it can be easy to start doubting yourself. But let me reassure you – you are valuable and worthy, regardless of what anyone else says or thinks.

Each one of us brings unique qualities, skills, and perspectives to the table. Don’t let anyone’s arrogance make you feel less than what you are.

It’s okay to remind yourself of your accomplishments and strengths from time to time. Don’t let their inflated ego eclipse your self-confidence.

You are more than enough just as you are. Always remember that.

6) Seek support

There was a time when I felt completely alone dealing with a particularly challenging individual. They constantly acted “high and mighty,” belittling others and creating a toxic environment.

I initially tried to handle it all by myself, thinking that asking for help would be a sign of weakness. But I was wrong.

Reaching out to trusted friends, colleagues, or even a mentor can make a world of difference. They can provide perspective, advice, or simply lend a sympathetic ear.

No one should have to deal with such behavior alone. So don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it.

7) Maintain professionalism

In the face of a “high and mighty” individual, it can be tempting to stoop to their level. But remember, it’s crucial to maintain your professionalism at all times.

Whether it’s at work or in social settings, always behave in a way that reflects your values and integrity. Even if they’re not showing respect, you should continue to be respectful.

By doing this, not only do you set a positive example, but you also ensure that your reputation remains untarnished.

After all, two wrongs don’t make a right. So no matter how they act, always keep your professionalism intact.

10) Don’t take it personally

The most crucial thing to remember when dealing with people who act “high and mighty” is not to take their behavior personally.

Their arrogance or superiority has nothing to do with you or your worth. It’s more about them and their own issues.

You’re not responsible for their behavior, and it’s not a reflection of who you are.

So, don’t let it get under your skin or affect your self-esteem. You’re better than that.

Final thoughts: It’s about respect

The crux of dealing with people who act “high and mighty” boils down to one fundamental principle: respect.

It’s important to remember that everyone, including you, deserves respect.

When faced with such individuals, your challenge is to uphold this principle. This means respecting yourself by not allowing their behavior to impact your self-esteem, and respecting them by not stooping to their level.

In the words of the renowned philosopher Immanuel Kant, “Act in such a way that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, never merely as a means to an end, but always at the same time as an end.”

This is the ethos that should guide us. It’s not merely about handling people who act “high and mighty”, but more about fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

After all, we might not control how others behave, but we do have control over our own actions and reactions. And that’s where our true strength lies.

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