Talking about zen, the concept "beginners mind" [1] is where this "feeling like a noob" is the desired state that will help you not get stuck in your ego when you get good at something.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoshin

The last several years it seems I've encountered a lot less abrasive, condescending superior-intellect types. In the past I've worked with people with egos the size of the Sun. I've been wondering if I've just been lucky recently, or if there's just less of them out there.

Then again, it could just be that I've learned to tolerate various personalities better as I've gotten older.

Good advice. At the same time, in some cases, this approach can bring real world consequences?

E.g. might result in that other silly and superior acting person, getting the job, and you didn't. Or the girls like him better because he seems confident?

But anyway, generally, I like the Zen-out approach. And probably it's possible to be a good self esteem Noob too -- I mean, to stay happy when one tries and fails repeatedly, also when everyone is watching, although maybe not so easy.

This is how we ended up with a bunch of rich but ignorant people calling the shots.

I didn't say do what they say, or let them push you around. Just let them act how they want to act, and then go with what you know. Why does it matter to me if someone acts superior about a topic if I have my own confidence in what I know?

Because they will persuade people who don't know any better.

Just present how you see things and try to persuade them of your view then. Don’t worry about how good the other person thinks they are.