Pride; “a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired.”
This weekend, London, along with hundreds of other cities around the world over the coming weeks, are celebrating Pride. A time when the LGBT community come together to raise awareness, promote equality and to party. Barriers are broken down and people can truly be themselves in a safe and vibrant environment.
We tend to find it easy to be proud of others, of collective efforts or of being a part of something bigger than we are, but it’s not so easy to be proud of our own individual achievements. Why? One, we feel guilty, or let society make us feel that way for sharing about personal success, two, no-one likes to take pride alone, and three, no-one likes a bragger. But there is a serious difference between pride and arrogance, people!
So, what are you proud of?
Take a moment to acknowledge what you have achieved this week, this month or this year. Whether it is at work or with a friend or family member; perhaps you were promoted, or you were there for someone when they needed it most. Reflection and the ability to be proud of yourself is something we should all do more often.
In the working environment, whatever sector you are in, use ‘Pride’ week as a reason to begin finding 10 minutes at the end of every week to look back at what you have achieved. Send yourself an email that acknowledges your successes or suggest including them in weekly round-up meetings at work and be proud of them, build on them and share them with others to encourage them to do the same.
Outside of work, think about what makes you proud and remind yourself as often as you can. It might be your newest recipe that you’ve spent weeks perfecting, so cook for the whole family! Or if it is a recently found hobby that you’ve picked up like a natural, sign up to a communal group that get together once a week to practice! Perhaps it is a loved one or furry friend that you couldn’t be prouder of, their first words or off-the-lead walk, be together and share your pride.
This weekend in London, there will be processions, parties, cabaret, debates, sports, theatre and much more. Every sexuality, nationality, religion, gender will come together and celebrate with the greatest of Pride. Whatever you do, do it with Pride!
If you are finding it difficult to take pride in your work, get in touch with me today to help you find a job that we can be proud of, together!
