The thing is I’m not a cocky or arrogant guy. The bit of confidence I do have was almost non existent when I was younger. No one I know perceives me as such because I try to be as humble as possible.

However I think my ego is fragile, and idk what to do about it. It’s like I’m inwardly arrogant while still not having the confidence to justify it somehow. Stuff like criticism, rejection, being objectively beaten, and being see as lesser seem to get to me way too much. On the outside I can accept it gracefully (trying to take it on the chin, improve, keep remarks and feelings to myself) but in reality on the inside it fucks me up. Any tips on how to improve this? Lately I’ve realized I’ve been like this all my life and I know having childish feelings like this on the inside are a detriment.