I had a boss once who told me what a great job I did. My response was simply, “Thank you'” which I deemed to be the correct and acceptable one. Perhaps it was my tone of voice or something about my demeanor that irritated her because she told me to stop acting so humble. (What was I supposed to say, “Why, yes! Yes I did!”?)
What I’ve noticed though in writing and sometimes in conversation is that artists often use self-deprecating language in attempt to…to what? Deflect attention from themselves? Not to appear to be a braggart? Actually sometimes they do want to appear humble.
Sometimes this self deprecation comes in the form of humble bragging, which can be a way of trying to gain sympathy plus admiration, a ploy that backfires. Sometimes self deprecation borders on coyness.
I have often written things for artists that I suspect they may be uncomfortable with. All I am doing is mentioning achievements and accolades that are pertinent for the audience. When you pack all that information in succinctly, without a lot of extraneous and wasteful words, the statement becomes powerful. And sometimes that scares artists.
Listing accomplishments does not make artists appear to be obnoxious braggarts or over the top personalities. It makes them appear as what they are, people who have worked hard and are earning recognition for their achievements.
I always say, “Change your story, change your life.”
Need help changing yours but not sure where to begin? Send me a message through my contact form, an email at beth@bethlowell.com or give me a call (973)960-6464
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