We ‘d all like to think that we are great at what we do and that others notice. We hustle and grind on our business endeavors to make sure that at the end of the day, they are profitable and enduring. When someone comes along and says, “great job” or “I like what you do”, it can do wonders for morale and for business. But do all of those pats on the back and wonderful accolades go to your head and get in the way of your success?
I, for one, can testify to this. There have been times where I’ve found myself basking in the light of compliments, only to realize that doing so does nothing for me or for my business. The euphoria is temporary, and the work can’t complete itself. I am only as good as my last blog post, project, or personal appearance, so getting too full of myself does no one but me a disservice.
In order to check myself (before I wreck myself), I have an actual checklist that I maintain so that I stay true to me, my blog, and my business, without getting too caught up in the clouds. Not letting your success, however big or small that may be, rule your life is a pretty good strategy. And it just may help you continue to rise to the top, without plummeting in your own cloud of ego:
Don’t be too good to ask for help:
No matter how big you are in whatever it is you are doing, continue to ask for help. Don’t think you are too good to ask someone for their opinion, or if you have a question, seek out an answer from a trusted source.
Never stop learning:
Know it all’s really kill my mood. There is always something to learn, so remain open to learning and growing.
Modesty goes a long way:
Did you receive a compliment today or a wonderful comment on your blog? Say thank you (and mean it), or comment back to the person on your blog and let them know you appreciate them leaving a comment.
It’s not all about you:
As an only child, sometimes I am guilty of this. I have to realize that it’s not all about me or what I want, but let others have their shine and congratulate them when they are doing well.
Tribe or Think Tank:
Having a tribe or think tank who you consult with about business matters (and help check you when your head gets too big) is a really good look. They have your best interests at heart, and because you trust them, they can tell you about yourself without you becoming overly emotional about their feedback. My tribe has done wonders for my business and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. Plus, they keep me focused on the real matters at hand—business.
Letting your ego get in the way of your success can ruin a really good thing. Hopefully the tips above can help you. Here’s to success, without the big head! 🙂
This post is why I think you are awesome sauce with fat free chips on the side; humble and incredibly talented all in 1 fell swoop (don’t let those compliments get in the way of your success *heh*). I totally agree with what you’re saying. Bible says “pride comes before a fall” and I have to always tell myself “Self, don’t get to happy with the shine” (’cause it’s not mine anyway).
Anyhoo … great post. In closing .. before I wreck myself … ’cause getting a big head is bad for your health! 😛
Aww, thanks Glammy! Now will YOU remember me when you make it to the top, OKAY?! Love ya!
Great post! I don’t think I have enough ego. I’m uncomfortable talking about myself, what I know, what I can do, and what I’ve accomplished. I never want to be that person yammering on & on about herself.
I totally agree. But… I do think that we need to take a moment every now and then and sit back and enjoy our accomplishments and hard work. A lifelong learner I know that I will constantly be striving to better myself and gain more knowledge, but every now and then I think its important that we sit back, prop our feet up and think “Yep, I’ve done well”.
We know we’re just going to pick up and get the grind tomorrow, so enjoy an evening or two just basking in your accomplishments. Think about all those who are entitled and basking in themselves, with no accomplishments… Why should they get all the fun?
You likely don’t do it nearly as often as you should!