Thoughts on Modesty

Now if you are doing a PhD like me or have been doing anything related to natural sciences you definitely have been taught by the universe to be modest and humble. Naturally, same protocol does not translate to human beings. To achieve anything in this life you have to acrobat perfectly balanced between modesty and boldness.

If you talk excessively boastingly about your achievements, there might be a chance that you will be perceived as arrogant and pretentious. Of course, modesty will not help you get anywhere because this virtue is often misunderstood as self-consciousness and uncertainty.

As John Kenneth Galbraith very wisely pointed out ‘Modesty is vastly overrated’ and this week I’ve learned to not point out my weaknesses especially in the working environment and to be more confident. And to keep quiet…

I am thinking to open a new category on the blog called ‘Lesson of the Week’. I make it my goal to learn something new every day, whether that is profession related, about myself or in generally human nature.

The pictures of the blooms were taken on the way to work.

I wish you all a lovely Sunday and please do let me know your thoughts on modesty.

Cheers,

T.