Social media has changed a lot about how people interact with one another — including how we share good news. Whether it’s a new job or a personal accomplishment, it’s important to acknowledge hard work and celebrate achievements, even if it might feel uncomfortable. When sharing in person, or on social media, there’s a formula for giving yourself a well-deserved (and received) pat on the back.

How to Share Your Accomplishments

Lead with the good news: For some, this may seem agonizing. Who self-promotes if they’re not applying for a job? But writing — or sharing — a straightforward brag lets the speaker highlight their accomplishments and gives the readers a chance to share in their joy.  

Example: So excited to announce I just signed a deal for my latest book. Keep your eyes peeled for its release date!

Keep it brief and clear: Save the play-by-play recaps for a long dinner with your friends. When announcing your news, have a few lines ready to summarize the accomplishment.

Example: I’ve been working really hard this past year to earn a promotion at my job. I just successfully negotiated for a new title, and I’m excited to get started.

When in doubt, be sincere: Even if you’re nervous to share your accomplishment or your big news, just remind yourself that your excitement will come through, and your friends and family are eager to share in your joy.

What Makes a Humblebrag?

One of the downfalls of text communication and social media is the lack of tone and context. Enter the humblebrag. The word “humblebrag” is an invented word that entered the lexicon in the 2010s. It’s defined as “a seemingly modest, self-critical, or casual statement or reference that is meant to draw attention to one's admirable or impressive qualities or achievements.” Many of us instinctively know a humblebrag when we read one on social media, or overhear it at a party. It usually blends a complaint, or a self-deprecating comment, with a boast.  

Example: It felt like the traffic was never ending, but we FINALLY got to our new beach house.

Despite the fact that the humblebrag has gotten a bad reputation, it’s a common tool for self-presentation. The speaker is aware of the negative connotations of bragging, and they want to soften their delivery. Instead, the next time you feel the instinct to humblebrag, try these tips to share your accomplishments proudly with the world.

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