Bragging gets a bad rap. Even “humble” bragging doesn’t work well. You think you are being subtle but often others see it for what it is… bragging! Humble Brag is to make an ostensibly modest or self-deprecating statement with the actual intention of drawing attention to something you are proud of. When you feel good about an accomplishment you need to let someone know and that is YOU!
Acknowledging your accomplishments and adding in celebrations is critical for building a career or business that is fulfilling and even fun! Waiting for your boss, colleague or client to say something complimentary is not a good strategy for feeling good in your work life. Ironically, when you need something less because you have given it to yourself you are more likely to get it from others. Satisfied or positive energy is much more inviting than resentful or negative energy.
When clients first come to see me they are in a funk. They aren’t bragging but instead beating up on themselves, blaming others or both. Neither choice is good. Early in our work together I ask them to start a document called “Why I’m Fabulous!” This is basically the same as bragging about yourself to yourself! When you are feeling down you pull up the document and even if it’s hard to digest it helps you feel better.
Others will brag about you and that is a good thing. Be appreciative and say thank-you! I personally love to brag about others and I believe my authenticity is apparent. I am very careful to only say what’s true. Sometimes I stop myself for a second to be sure before bragging or giving a compliment.
Personal Story:
I get excited and enthusiastically tell people how much I love my work. At times I have bordered on bragging when I add that I feel like I am really good at what I do. Years ago someone told me it sounded like I was bragging. OUCH! Talk about feeling like you got punched in the stomach. I immediately got the book “BRAG: The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It” by Peggy Klaus. It was very helpful. Now I tell “success” stories to share my passion!
One last thing… Because our feelings of self-esteem and self-confidence rely on being able to take pride in our achievements, it’s not only okay, but healthy, to brag about yourself to yourself. On the flip side of bragging is depression and low self-esteem. This happens from focusing too much on what wasn’t perfect or a specific mistake you made.
Select one of your favorite “success” stories and start sharing it. Practice with people from your “Love Club!” Let me know how it goes. I love hearing from you and if you have a topic you want me to write about, please let me know.
Take good care,
MarGO!
Professional Counselor, Business, Career and Life Coach
404-218-4559
MargoGeller@Gmail.com
www.MargoGeller.com
