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Quandary – Bragging or Humble

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If you were raised as I was, you were taught that it was better to be humble than to brag on yourself.  In

controller 150x150 Quandary   Bragging or Humble

Who controls your public impression?

fact, my father stated, “Girls are to be modest, quiet and submissive;” that takes humble to silence and beyond.

 

Fine Line

 

Where do you draw the line between self-aggrandizing and humble?

 

School – You do your own work and receive a grade on that work.  Your grades are recorded on your report card.  It  certainly would not have been wise to say, “Oh no, that report was a team effort” or “I didn’t do that work, Susie Smart did that report for me.”  Teachers take a dim view of cheating, having someone else do the work for you, or you doing the work for someone else.

 

Career – As life and careers progressed it became obvious that it was important to acknowledge accomplishments.  Granted it was preferable to have a third party praise you rather than to praise yourself.  At some point and in some manner you do need to receive some credit for your achievements.

Where do you draw the fine line between acknowledging your achievements and remaining humble?  The line becomes fuzzy and perhaps even wavy.

If you choose to progress in your career, you must perform in a manner worthy of advancement.  To rely solely on others in this regard is not wise, reliable or expedient.  Management expects an individual to demonstrate leadership and exceptional job performance in order to receive more leadership opportunities and more responsibility.

The quandary remains.  How do you demonstrate leadership and exceptional job performance and remain humble simultaneously?

Success Plan

How many times have you encountered someone who was so full of themselves that they literally repelled others?  High school star athletes or the “We are so hot” popular girls leap to mind.  Unless you are part of the in circle they appear to consider themselves above everyone else. Some professional athletes, rock musicians and Hollywood stars have received negative publicity for unacceptable behavior.

Negative publicity and appearing egotistical is not the ideal impression for career advancement, but neither is the mousey “I’d rather hide in the corner and appear invisible” impression.  The quandary is where is the magic spot to draw the fine line?

The quandary extends beyond employees.  The owner of the company must project enough confidence, accomplishment and company value to attract new clients, retain current clients and attract highly competent employees.  The owner must also remain humble enough to extend credit to the employees who are contributing time and effort to the company success.

Recently this exact quandary appeared in a social setting.  A service organization initiated a major fundraising endeavor which had the potential to benefit thousands now and continuing for years.  The man with the official title from all outward appearances and his own statements had not exerted much effort.  Another member of the organization was given the assignment of visiting all 67 clubs all over the state.  This meant driving 200 to 300 miles a day for five days a week for four months, extensive coordination and a tremendous time commitment all at her personal expense.  Who should receive the credit for the wonderful results achieved?  In this instance she credited the results to a team effort.  The important fact in this organization was the results of the success plan; raising over $200,000 in funds to provide benefits to deserving individuals.

Solution to the Quandary

In the question of a career situation, a documented report detailing the assignment, the specifics of the success plan, steps taken to achieve the goals in the success plan and the results of the project would be appropriate.  In a career situation, the employee has a right to be recognized.  Writing the report in a more factual manner rather than blatant bragging would be well received.  Adding a section on the long range benefits to the company as a result of the success of the project would also be wise.

The quandary of where to draw the fine line between bragging and being humble persists.  In the case of a career, draw the line closer to acknowledging your exceptional job performance.  In a social setting draw the line closer to being humble and team oriented.  Design your success plan for more long-range benefit rather than immediate reward; benefit to the company and the organization first will also bring the most long-range benefit to you.

Are you seeking more success in your life and career, contact  www.Elaine4Success.com. Inquire about hiring Elaine Love for your next sales training, executive meeting or personal growth presentation.  Go to www.Elaine4Success.com/aboutwww.Elaine4Success.com/Contact


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