In today’s competitive world, it’s easy to feel pressured into appearing more skilled and successful than we really are. We might exaggerate our achievements or make it seem like we are better at something than we actually are. But the truth is, overselling ourselves can backfire. It is like building a castle in the sand, it may look impressive at first, but if the foundation isn’t solid, it will eventually collapse.
We oversell ourselves because we are afraid we are not good enough, or we are seeking validation from others. We try to create a version of ourselves that is perfect, someone others will admire. But true strength comes from being honest about who we are, both the good and the bad side. Think about the people you enjoy being around. Are they the ones who are always bragging, or the ones who are open about their strengths and areas for improvement? Real connections are built on honesty, while overselling can push people away.
Overselling isn’t just about lying, it is also about setting expectations too high. Think of it like building a tower of blocks that is too tall and unstable. The higher it gets, the harder it is to keep it standing. If we fail to live up to the image we have created, we might miss deadlines, deliver subpar work, and lose the trust of others. It is like overpromising someone and under delivering which leads to disappointing people around you.
To avoid overselling, start by being honest with yourself about your skills. Do not just focus on what you want to be good at acknowledge what you actually excel at. Be specific. For example, instead of saying you’re good at “business,” highlight a more specific skill, like “building relationships with clients” or “developing creative solutions.” It’s also important to remember that no one knows everything. We are all learning, and admitting that you still have things to master is not a weakness. In fact, it shows maturity and a growth mindset. Instead of hiding what you are not good at, acknowledge it and share that you are working on improving.
Instead of bragging, let your work speak for itself. How have you helped people in the past? If possible, use numbers to show your impact. For example, saying “I helped my last company increase website traffic by 20%” is far more impactful than saying you “improved their online presence.” Be humble, and remember: you do not need to boast about being amazing – your work will speak for itself. Also, ask for honest feedback from people you trust. It might be tough to hear, but it is really helpful for your growth.
In a world where everyone is trying to build a perfect online image, being authentic is a breath of fresh air. People trust and remember those who are real. So, do not try to be someone you are not. Focus on what makes you unique – your skills, experiences, and even the areas where you are still growing. That is what makes you special. Stop pretending to be someone else, embrace who you are, and watch your success grow.