The Cost of Humility (a.k.a. How to Accidentally Erase Yourself at Work)

The Cost of Humility

Ever busted your tail on a project, only to watch someone else soak up the praise? Yeah, that stings. You pour your heart, brain cells, and maybe a little caffeine into something, but if nobody knows you were behind the magic, how can they give you the recognition you deserve?

Here’s the tough love: humility is a beautiful virtue—but in the workplace, it can easily slide into invisibility.

Why You Shouldn’t Dim Your Shine

Studies show employees who are regularly recognized are 31% more likely to be engaged at work. And engagement isn’t just “feeling good”—it leads to better opportunities, promotions, and a stronger professional reputation.

Even Scripture reminds us that we’re called to be faithful stewards of our gifts (Matthew 5:14–16). Hiding your light doesn’t serve anyone—it robs others of the chance to benefit from the talents God gave you.

Strategies to Illuminate Your Contributions

1. Speak Up (Without Sounding Like “That Guy”)
In meetings, slip in phrases like, “When I was mapping out that process…” or “I found when I tested X, it worked better.” This keeps the tone humble but makes it clear you were in the driver’s seat.

2. Share Your Wins
Whether it’s a short LinkedIn post, an update in your team chat, or a quick note to your boss, talk about completed projects and lessons learned. Bonus: it encourages a culture where others share their wins too.

3. Request Feedback
Asking for feedback opens the door for your work to be acknowledged. If it’s positive, you’ve just created a natural moment of recognition. If it’s constructive, you gain clarity for next time. Win-win.

4. Build Relationships With Your “Cheer Squad”
Get to know managers, mentors, and peers who can speak up for you when you’re not in the room. Think of it as visibility insurance.

5. Set a “Visibility Habit”
Every Friday, write down one win from the week. Then decide how to share it—team email, one-on-one update, or quick post online. Small, consistent steps add up.

6. Volunteer for Spotlight Projects
High-profile assignments are a fast-track to new audiences who can see your abilities in action. Yes, it might stretch you—but it’s worth it.

The Takeaway

Letting your light shine isn’t about ego—it’s about stewardship. God didn’t give you your skills just to keep them hidden under a bushel.

So, here’s your challenge for the week: pick one project you’ve worked on recently and tell someone about it. See how it feels to step out of the shadows—you might be surprised how quickly others start to notice.