Those who wish to convey to the mind of others that they are of a certain standing, simply stating that they are of said standing, can more often than not lead to disbelief in the listener. In other words, saying that you're "smart" or a "master" of something, will only bring you mockery and a perception of pretentiousness, as long as you don't prove yourself sufficiently, that you are indeed of this standing of yours.
A most-dominant example nowadays is the term "woke." While it's trying to convey that one is somehow enlightened, they are in fact shooting themselves in the foot since it creates the impression that they are delusional about themselves; that they are less than they intend to convey they are.
Now that this term is widely-used as an insult to those who highly support political correctness, it has become even harder to use that term about yourself, and expect one to be taken seriously. Being "woke" in addition, also creates this condescending impression that one is far more knowledgeable than the rest of us, who are not as "awake" as they are.
Thus, titles such as "woke" or "sage" are very dangerous to one's reputation because simply stating that one is of said title/status, is not at all a worthy alternative to simply presenting that you are a "sage" or a "master" or whatever. It is indeed kind of lazy to just say something instead of using yourself as an example through your actions.
This is why wise people do not just say out loud that they are "smart," as they would lead by example, rather than by mere words. To be of a certain standing, one must therefore prove to both themselves and to others that they are indeed worthy of said position under whatever framework or scale. This is because it is far more effective to put the point across through practical evidence rather than through what would seem to be boasting or "blowing off one's own horn."
The true impression of someone's character is best created from being a witness to said character, and not for that character to come and present themselves as such. This is especially true for people who do not know you on a regular basis, if at all. Because of this lack of familiarity, it is far easier to judge that one is delusional about themselves, than judging the same thing after a long time of recognition or interaction.
Do not say you are wise, and especially not a master or a sage, as these titles share similar impacts with terms such as "woke." Remember that people are far more convinced by deeds rather than mere statements, as those can easily be debunked. It's not necessarily about being a "human being" and such; we're all human beings obviously (unless the reader is a robot).
Those who are confident enough about themselves, will not seek the approval of others by demand. The truly confident, after all, do not need to depend their self-esteem on the feedback of others, whether or not said feedback arrives at their doorstep. Attention-and-approval-seeking, all are examples of those who technically seek external recognition that does not necessarily exists within themselves.
Titles are, in the end, things to be earned through sweat, unless you happen to be born under royalty or nobility. Other people can serve as a mirror to your advancing, and once they reach a conclusion about you, said conclusion could be true if it truly reflects the significance of your deeds.
Thus, if you ever want to be considered a "master," a "sage," or whatever, as long as you work under a public framework and not within a complete isolation, then you should look to those who are not too biased, but also honest enough, to provide a reflection of your character. Of course, our identities can indeed exist beyond the realm of society, but as long as you communicate beyond the mere necessity, the value of society to your overall recognition in your role, shouldn't be disregarded.
Lastly, if you wish to have fans, they should become ones out of honest desire, and not just to please you. A wise person does not ask others to follow him or her; they come out of their own genuine decision. If they give you a certain title of respect, do not demand or request it to be used. Like in Taoism -- Wu Wei; let the positive impression come naturally as you interact with the world in a laid-back manner.
If I have appeared to sound arrogant during this article, I sincerely apologize, as I don't know how to communicate otherwise due to the fact that I have Asperger's. After all people with this condition lack social skills. I tried learning how to talk in a more "earthly" manner but I question its practicality.
