Signs You’re Too Humble as a Project Manager and How to Adjust

Humility is a trait often lauded in leaders, especially in project and business environments . But is it possible to be too humble? The answer is a Big yes. While being humble can facilitate a collaborative environment and build trust within project? teams, an excess of humility can also hinder your effectiveness as a project manager. It’s a delicate balance to strike, but recognizing the signs that you’re too humble can help you adjust and find that sweet spot. Let’s look at the signs and practical steps to make the necessary adjustments.

Sign 1: You Downplay Your Achievements

One of the most common signs of excessive humility is downplaying your achievements. If you constantly deflect praise or attribute all successes to your team without acknowledging your role, you might be doing yourself a disservice.

Tips for Adjustment : Own Your Successes

It’s important to recognize and celebrate your achievements. Am not saying you should take all the credit, but acknowledging your contributions is important. Start by keeping a personal achievement log. Write down your accomplishments, whether big or? small. When you receive praise, accept it graciously and share the credit with your team where appropriate . This balanced approach reinforces your leadership while still recognizing your team’s efforts.

Sign 2: You Avoid Taking the Lead

Another sign you’re too humble is reluctance to step up and lead. If you find yourself always deferring decisions to others or waiting for someone else to take charge, it might be time to reassess your approach.

How to Adjust: Step Into Your Leadership Role

Leadership is about making decisions and guiding your team. Trust your skills and experience. The next time an opportunity arises to lead a meeting, present a project update, or make a crucial decision, seize it. Start small if necessary, but gradually take on more visible leadership roles. Your team looks to you for direction, and stepping up will instil confidence in your leadership.

Sign 3: You Over-Apologize

Do you find yourself apologizing frequently, even for things that are not your fault? Over-apologizing can be a sign of excessive humility and can undermine your authority as a project manager.

How to Adjust: Reserve Apologies for When They’re Truly Needed

Apologizing is appropriate when you’ve made a mistake or if something has gone wrong under your watch. However, constantly saying sorry for minor issues or things beyond your control can diminish your authority. Practice assertive communication. Instead of apologizing, try acknowledging the issue and proposing a solution. For example, instead of saying, “I’m sorry the report is late,” say, “The report is late, but I’m working on expediting the process to get it to you as soon as possible.”

Sign 4: You Hesitate to Give Constructive Feedback

Giving constructive feedback is a crucial part of a project manager’s role. If you shy away from offering feedback because you don’t want to seem overly critical, you may be too humble.

How to Adjust: Embrace Constructive Feedback as a Tool for Growth

Feedback, when delivered correctly, is a powerful tool for improvement. Frame your feedback in a positive light. Instead of focusing solely on what went wrong, highlight what was done well and how improvements can be made. For instance, “Your presentation was well-researched, but it could be more impactful with a clearer structure and stronger conclusion.” This approach ensures that your feedback is received positively and constructively.

Sign 5: You Undervalue Your Expertise

Sometimes, being too humble can lead to undervaluing your own expertise. If you frequently second-guess your decisions or feel unqualified despite your experience, it’s a sign you might be too humble.

How to Adjust: Recognize and Leverage Your Expertise

Remember that you were chosen for your role because of your skills and expertise. Trust your knowledge and experience. When faced with a decision, rely on your expertise and make informed choices confidently. Seek feedback and validation from peers and mentors if necessary, but don’t let self-doubt overshadow your capabilities.

Sign 6: You Struggle to Advocate for Yourself

Advocating for yourself, whether it’s for a promotion, resources, or support, is essential. If you find it challenging to speak up for your own needs and aspirations, you might be exhibiting excessive humility.

How to Adjust: Learn to Self-Advocate

Self-advocacy starts with knowing your worth. Reflect on your contributions and the value you bring to your projects. When discussing your needs or aspirations, be clear and assertive. Use data and examples to support your case. For instance, “I’ve successfully led multiple high-profile projects that have increased our client or stakeholders satisfaction by 20%. I believe I’m ready for a more senior role where I can further contribute to the organisation’s success.”

Finding the Balance

Striking the right balance between humility and assertiveness is key to being an effective project manager. Humility promotes collaboration and trust, but too much can undermine your leadership.

Humility is a valuable trait, but like any quality, it needs to be balanced. As a project manager, your team looks to you for direction, confidence, and leadership.