Hi Cringers,
Is your fear of judgment and appearing braggadocios holding you back from building your platform on LinkedIn, Substack, or elsewhere?
That’s normal. It can feel unnatural to put yourself out there day after day, especially on platforms like LinkedIn where friends, family, and coworkers are watching.
I still question how obnoxious I’m being. Then wonder, Why do I feel the need to ask myself that in the first place? Aren’t I allowed to have a voice?
Then I think, Of course, I am! It’s all in my head, no one’s judging me.
Then a friend unsubscribes or someone tells me my tone is inappropriate, or something happens that makes me think my initial suspicions are justified.
The thing is, I’m sure I do annoy certain people, but it’s not worth thinking much about. Just as I may annoy some people, I probably inspire others. You can’t inspire (or annoy) everyone. Someone will always have something to say. Best not to dwell on any of it.
The thing is people aren’t paying that much attention to you in the first place, which is an incredibly freeing thought.
And, anyway, having a consistent online presence isn’t bragging—it’s making yourself known.
The good news is that the more you put yourself out there, the more that voice that tells you you’re cringe, obnoxious, braggadocios, or [insert other putdown] will fade.
All the while, you’ll be building a bank of content for yourself that will have compounding effects on your network, reach, and access to opportunities.
I won’t lie and say that in under a year of consistently sharing online, my life has completely changed. It hasn’t.
I’m still working on growing my business. I’m not pulling in millions of dollars (yet) or operating with ten passive income streams, but I’ve started to see some of the fruits of my labor.
“Bragging” helped me expand my network and meet people from all over the world. “Bragging” helped me attract clients. “Bragging” got me in the habit of writing and reflecting on what I can offer.
“Bragging” and building your platform is an act of love for your future self. It’s a form of insurance in a way.
Your reputation is with you for life. It doesn’t end with a job. You control it, build it, and direct it. If you are conscious of that and willing to put in the time and effort, it will serve you well.
On top of all this, why not be braggadocios? What’s wrong with that? Why can’t we talk ourselves up? Why can’t we be proud of who we are and what we’ve accomplished?
I’d like to see more people do it. I’d much rather see others build themselves up than tear themselves down or stand back in the shadows for fear of what others might think.
This is all to say, don’t let fear keep you from putting yourself out there.
Brag away. Be proud of the fact that you’re showing up and sharing your voice with the world.
It takes courage to stand out. Just as there are trolls, there are also people who will love you and support you on your way.
Until next time, Cringers.
