Promote, Self Belief Or Cringe?

Your fear of being "cringe" is keeping you broke. Last week, a classmate told me he got inspired by my LinkedIn posts and started sharing his own content. The very next day, a group of guys started mocking him: "Boy, you are posting content on LinkedIn? That's pretty Cringe". He got so discouraged, he stopped posting. The people who mock your efforts are usually the same ones who complain about having no opportunities.

2 months back, I used to think promoting myself was "bragging." That asking for opportunities was "pestering." That showing my work was "being pushy." Then I realized that if you have skills that can solve problems, isn't it almost selfish to keep them hidden? Those brilliant people - talented writers, skilled designers, amazing strategists - often describe their outreach as "badgering" or "bothering people." They don't see themselves as offering valuable services. They see themselves as begging.

This is backwards. When you pitch your services, you're not asking for charity. You're offering a solution. When you share your work, you're not showing off. You're making yourself discoverable. 
When you follow up, you're not being annoying. You're being professional.

The formula:

• Find people with problems you can solve
• Show them how you can help
• Make lots of offers (you only need one yes)
• Follow up professionally
• Repeat

And, let me tell you - you'll get rejected. A lot. But there might only be a few conversations between you and the success you want.

Don't be the person waiting to be discovered. Make your own opportunities. Find your people. 
Serve them boldly.

Be shameless about:

• Your talents and skills
• The value you provide
• Your right to earn well
• Taking up space in your industry

The world needs what you have to offer. Your only job is to make sure the right people know about it.