We’ve all used social media to brag about something in our lives. We often share vacations, job opportunities, and other accomplishments with others. I’ve done it myself when I’m proud of my personal or professional achievements.
Social media makes it easy to share the good things in life with so many people. And it makes sense that people want to be congratulated for their success.
There’s a fine line between sharing your hard work and showing off.
I believe people who brag have lost sight of the fact that their behavior can come across as if they think they’re better than everyone else. It leads those around them to minimizing their own achievements because they feel they will always be one-upped.
The big difference between bragging and appreciating is in one’s mindset, emotions, and perspective.
I find that people who brag a lot have an “all mine” mindset. It’s like, “I got this. It’s mine. I worked hard for it. I earned it. I am going to show it off whenever I can and talk about it whenever possible because I’m proud of myself and everyone else should be too.”
This attitude could be due to a lack of self-esteem and insecurity in a person’s skills or life in general. Some show-offs might also have a lack of consideration for others’ feelings.
There’s a way to share your accomplishments and still stay humble.
Stepping back and realizing that you didn’t become who you are or get to where you are alone makes it easier because you are being realistic. You had help and will continue to have help throughout different stages in life.
So when you’re sharing your achievements, make sure to give and show appreciation for the people that have helped shape the person you are today. I think if more people did that, we would see a lot less bragging on social media and become more appreciative for what we have.
I think that it’s always important to remember where you started and how you got to the finish line.
Whenever I feel the need to share something I’m proud of on social media, I am very self-aware that I didn’t get here alone. I take it as an opportunity to share some gratitude for the people who helped me along the way. No one wants to hear anyone brag all the time.
Before you share your accomplishments on social media, take a step back, reflect, and be self-aware. Be grateful for what you have and where you’re going.
Photo by Kate Torline on Unsplash
