You may be a bit of an introvert (like me), or remember this passage:
“For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service].”
Romans 12:3 (Amplified Bible)
There is a time to speak up and keep silent while honoring who you are and your values.
During constant change, even if you are a leader-manager, waiting for someone to recognize your contributions and impact may not happen. That could translate to lost career opportunities.
Comfortably Toot
People are juggling multiple priorities, dealing with personal performance expectations, and could unintentionally overlook your contributions.
That’s where Peggy Klaus’ book, “Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It,” gives practical, achievable actions to help you speak up for yourself while honoring your values.
Ms. Klaus’ helps you to master the art of telling stories about yourself.
When you frame and relay your contributions via short stories – what Klaus coins as “bragologues” – you soften the edges of what typically projects negatively as bragging.
It's up to you to let others know what you do, why you do it, and your impact on this world.
The following are a few questions Klaus poses in her book:
❓ What are the ten most interesting things you have done or have happened to you?
❓ Considering your current position and past jobs, what career success are you most proud of accomplishing?
❓How are you making a difference in people’s lives?
Be the CEO of Your Career
You are the business owner and CEO of your career. You have end-to-end control of your business system – from personal research and development, delivery of exceptional outcomes and impact, and all that happens in between.
As you review the year, reflect on your progress, and reset your business system. It’s a good time to mine your most important asset – yourself!
Take Action
Take these simple yet sometimes difficult-to-execute actions:
✅ First, revisit your purpose. Why is it you do what you do? What’s your mission in life – your calling?
✅ Define success in a way that is meaningful to you.
With your purpose as your compass, the next steps empower your execution.
✅ Align your behaviors, actions, and decisions to support your purpose.
✅ Storytelling, as Klaus emphasizes in her book, is vital. Intentionally frame your success stories and prepare to share them with others.
What you keep bottled within may be the kindling that someone else needs to make a difference-making change in their lives.
✅ Lastly, remember to celebrate you. Too often, a celebration is reserved for big successes. Recognize and celebrate all of your accomplishments to continue building your confidence, courage, and impact.
Stretch and challenge yourself to become all you envisioned becoming!
You don’t have to go it alone. Schedule a complimentary consultation: https://calendly.com/lillian-davenport-evs/30-minutes
Lillian Davenport, SPHR, SHRM – SCP, CTACC, Principal, End View Solutions, LLC
