The problem with these online “status” discussions is that they discuss status as though it’s independent of the hard work and talent that typically results in success. I’m not saying that’s always present: some people just get lucky. But most of the people you probably want to emulate aren’t “just” lucky. They’re talented and worked hard to produce exceptional work over and over again, and then maybe also had some luck.
Anyway, the point here is that I’ve been fortunate to meet a number of really talented people at various stages of their careers, and many of the most talented ones really are humble. They act that way because they don’t need to be boastful about their work in the first place, and lack of humility is a really good way to make people resent you instead of helping you, which is counterproductive when you’re good at what you do. It also signals that you aren’t confident in your work, or that you’re overconfident and not careful. Both can be red flags.
Don’t know why I’m writing this. I just wish someone had explained these things to me when I was starting out in my career.
Anyway, the point here is that I’ve been fortunate to meet a number of really talented people at various stages of their careers, and many of the most talented ones really are humble. They act that way because they don’t need to be boastful about their work in the first place, and lack of humility is a really good way to make people resent you instead of helping you, which is counterproductive when you’re good at what you do. It also signals that you aren’t confident in your work, or that you’re overconfident and not careful. Both can be red flags.
Don’t know why I’m writing this. I just wish someone had explained these things to me when I was starting out in my career.