Why the World Would Be Better if Everyone Doubting Themselves Became a Raging Self-Promoter

If No One Looks Like You, Your Story Would Change the World

About 15 years ago, I learned that I was working for the same editor who had once mentored one of my favorite writers. Eventually, when we had some free time together, I asked what Big Famous Writer had been like to work with.

“They weren’t the most naturally talented writer,” said the editor. “But they were the best self-promoter I’ve ever known.” Since then, I’ve repeatedly witnessed the importance of ambition and self-promotion for determining who ends up achieving their goals despite setbacks.

“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” -Bertrand Russell

It’s Not Just About Your Work Having Value

As Russell rightly stated, there’s a mismatch between who doubts themselves and who manages to charge on through. Some people think that a dislike of self-promotion comes from the belief that whatever you’re offering isn’t of value. As one article here even urged readers: “Don’t pretend the reason you avoid self-promotion is because you worry what others will think of you. That’s just not true.”