Hype vs. Substance

The football season is here!

Of all the sports, I like football the best, especially the competitiveness of the NFL.

While working out a few days ago, I watched a sports program where a commentator was predicting how well one team would perform during the upcoming season.

He said, “There’s no doubt they have a strong offense and a ridiculously great defense. I also think their coaching staff is superb. I’m not saying they are going to win it all, but they have what is needed to make a deep run this year.”

He finished, “We’re about to see if this hype has any substance behind it!”

This is an interesting comment that also applies to everyday life.

Hype

Hype can be defined as extravagant and intensive public promotion. In other words, this happens when someone is constantly talking about how good they are.

While there is nothing wrong with showing confidence, there are some people that go well beyond what is normal.

Here is an example based on a conversation I recently overheard at a convention …

HER: “When are you going back to Jersey?”

HIM: “I have to fly back on Friday because of a work situation. It seems like no one can do anything without me. The Director called me this morning, and she told me I was up for a promotion, so I can’t mess this stuff up. I’ve only been there 14 months, and it’s obvious I’m the best employee in my department!”

HER: “What do you mean?”

HIM: “I just get stuff done! This company is big on getting a college degree, so I need to finish my B.B.A. so I can move up the ladder. I’m already good at what I do. It’s stupid that they are looking for a certificate before I can take on a bigger job!”

Believe it or not, this conversation went on for about 20 minutes, and the guy occupied 95% of the talk time. I eventually had to put on my headphones so I could focus on my work.

The point I am making here is that this individual has an inflated view of his value. To this point, it’s only hype!

Substance

Over the years, I’ve observed that the most qualified individuals in any walk of life are the ones who talk less and do more.

There’s something powerful and undeniable when a person demonstrates a quiet confidence.

I’ve also noticed that organizational leaders can quickly spot the doers.? Of course, they can also identify the ones that talk a big game and usually end up doing very little.

Here are some ways to identify people who are focused on substance …

• They spend little time talking about themselves and focus on the job at hand.
• They understand that the company can operate without them.
• They know that success depends on the complimentary skills provided by a committed team.
• They carry themselves in a humble and respectful manner.

As I ponder my many years in the workforce, I’ve come to the realization that having a meaningful occupation is essential for my well-being.

In other words, I need to know I am bringing value to others.

However, there is no need for me to exaggerate the value I provide.

The key here is that if I spend less time hyping myself up, I can get more done.

Homework Inquiry

During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you show inner confidence in a humble way?