🔔 Elevare Gazette: Sunday Issue

^{Today's Focus: Downplaying Success- Why do we do that?}

Let’s talk about this fascinating and often overlooked topic: the neural basis of why we downplay our success. Understanding the science behind our tendencies can help us to change our behaviors and better celebrate our achievements.

Let’s dive in!

🧠 The Brain's Role in Self-Perception

Our brains got a lot going on, especially when it comes to how we see ourselves. Here are the key players:

1. Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): The Decision-Maker 🧠

   

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   • Role: Helps us evaluate our actions and achievements.

   • Impact: Balances humility with acknowledgment of success.

2. Anterior Cingulate Cortex: The Attention Control Center 🧠

   

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• Role: Regulates emotions and detects errors.

• Impact: When overactive, you might be your own worst critic and downplay your wins.

3. Amygdala: The Emotion Processor 🧠

   

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• Role: Handles fear and anxiety.

• Impact: Makes us downplay success to avoid feeling judged or rejected.

Okayy, the mini-brain science class is over.

Why Do We Downplay Our Success?🤔

• Cultural Norms: Many cultures value humility over self-promotion.

• Fear of Judgment: Worrying about being seen as arrogant.

• Imposter Syndrome: Doubting our abilities and fearing we'll be exposed as frauds.

• Conditioned Responses: Negative feedback for self-promotion teaches us to associate sharing achievements with bad outcomes.

How to Stop Downplaying Your Success🙅‍♀️

Time to break the habit! Here’s how:

1. Own Your Achievements: Start a "win journal" where you jot down daily or weekly achievements, no matter how small. This helps you acknowledge and celebrate your progress!!

2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Whenever you catch yourself downplaying a success, ask yourself, "Would I downplay a friend's achievement like this?" Treat yourself with the same kindness :)

3. Get Constructive Feedback: Seek out feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. Constructive feedback can help you see your true worth and areas for improvement.

4. Practice Positive Affirmations: Begin your day with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes. This can rewire your brain to focus on the positives.

If you liked this edition, please share this with your loved ones! :)

Understanding why we downplay our success is the first step to changing this behavior. Celebrate your achievements, and your hard work, and remember that acknowledging your success is a key part of personal growth! :)

Until Thursday,

Anusha Kannan

Follow Anusha on LinkedIn

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