Bragging Rights
Sharing Successes v. Being a Douche
Where is the line drawn?
At what point does someone’s internal monologue go from “So happy for you!” to “Oh my god, whatever…”?
When does talking about yourself go from sharing to boasting? What is the moment that turns an accomplishment into an annoyance?
You make something that you like. A film, a song, a poem, etc etc. You want to show it to people who’s opinion you respect. Maybe you even want to post it on social media as to share it with a wider audience.
Because you’re proud. Proud of making something that you care about.
But the only thing stopping you is the concept of a negative reaction. You can’t see anyone’s faces. You can’t tell if they like it. A thumbs up on Facebook is but a fleeting leaf blowing in the wind of possible truth.
It’s not satisfying.
You want to talk about it. Discuss it. Develop it. Dig into it. You want people to ask you questions you never even thought about, so you can grow.
Because you care. And if other people care too, they not only will talk about your work, but they can inspire you with their own passion. They can share with you what they do.
You both learn.
You both grow.
“Humility” is in interesting concept as well.
If you call yourself humble, you’re not humble.
If you say you’re not humble, but you are, you are confirming your humbleness.
If you are actively trying to be humble because it goes against your natural tendencies, are you really being humble?
And you run the risk of discrediting the work you do if you try too hard to be humble (*cough cough* Jennifer Lawrence *cough cough*).
(“Humble” is starting to sound like a really weird word at this point)
But being humble, having humility, it isn’t about not recognizing the importance of what you do. Humility isn’t discrediting your craft, it isn’t comparing your “thing” to someone else’s “thing”.
It’s doing what you do and it’s doing it with grace and poise.
It’s being polite and respectful of all opportunities that cross your path.
It’s recognizing every aspect that is brought to the table.
It’s appreciating yourself as well as others.
That’s where the line is drawn. When you start comparing accomplishments. When you monopolize the conversation and no one has any “Get Out of Jail Free” cards. When you discredit yourself or others. That’s when you’re a douche.
Appreciate what you do.
Appreciate what others do.
Share your success as well as your failures.
Be open, be honest, be kind, be respectful.
Everyone is just as important as you are.
