Definition
We feel smug when we've come out ahead and can't quite hide how much we're enjoying it.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Smugness pushes us to relish our successes. Quiet confidence is healthy, but overplaying it can rub others the wrong way and will lose us the cooperation of peers and friends.
◈ How It Shows Up
“I told you so...”Smirking, raised browGloating and braggingDrawing attention to winsLittle empathy when others fall short
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Verify claims with metrics
- List out what was repeatable
- List out where luck played a role
- Note the win, name who helped
- Share one tip without boasting
- Practice neutral, brief updates
- Ask a peer for one critique
Bad Ideas
- Gloat in group chats or threads
- Fish for praise with humblebrags
- Rub a rival’s face in your win
- Post victory laps repeatedly
- Treat others’ wins as threats
- Make risky calls to stay “on top”