Tooting My Horn
I have a tendency to be self-deprectating. It is a natural modesty that evolved out of an attempt to make others feel comfortable. I think I overdo it at times, however, and sound like I have low self-esteem. The fact is that I have a healthy opinion of myself, but I usually spare others' feelings before my own - unless it is an issue that I judge to be important. Is it a matter of being a laid-back person or a matter of courtesy? I'm not sure.I have been doing my semi-annual "What Do I Want to Be When I Grow Up?" soul-searching. Working in non-profit development is fun at times. It pays the bills and I always get Columbus Day off. Still, it's not quite where I pictured myself ten years ago.
I have been attempting an analysis of my strengths. What do I really enjoy doing? Where are my talents? And I'd like to toot my horn just this once about the one thing that I've enjoyed doing lately.
We do a lot of events and have been gradually bringing them in-house. Last week, we had a cultivation dinner here at our office. It was supposed to be a summery theme, so I chose the table overlays and created the centerpieces. The overlays were a pink, several shades of green, and white stripes. I bought apple green ribbon to wrap around the pillar candles and napkins.
I woke up early on the morning of the event and went to the florist. I picked some white and pink flowers from their stock and got some interesting greens. Within a half hour after arriving to work, I had five centerpieces. They were gorgeous. Simple and delicate. And they cost $80 with the vases. We usually pay $40 per centerpiece.
I stood back and looked at the dinner space after we had set it up that evening. It looked cool, summery, and festive.
In fifth grade, I decided that I was going to be an artist. I took art classes throughout high school and went to a private art college on scholarship. I only went for one year and have felt guilty about frittering away my talent ever since. But this week I realized that, although I don't draw or paint like I did, I still use my creativity. I used it when I decorated my house. I use it when I plan events at work. I use it when I cook.
So there you go. I'm tooting my own horn because I've got a knack. Screw self-deprecation!
posted by Zippy Buggleshorts @ Monday, August 08, 2005
6 Comments:
i think (for me at least) its a combination of laid-back/courtesy/lack-of-interest-in-enlightening-others of my greatness they will never know :lol:
i am sometimes envious of those who are doing work that is directly related to what not only their strengths are, but what their true passion is. but i always remember that i actually did do that for a while, and am happier being able to pay the bills.
but like you, i do take pride when i can apply my skills to something...its a good thing :)
I think your modesty is something that draws people to you, darth. As you are obviously a very smart, warm, and funny person.
Paying the bills cannot be underestimated. And I guess we get small satisfaction out of a job well done. Even if it seems as if a trained monkey could do it.
I'm working on the laid-back/self-deprecation thing. I do it all the time but my ego gets in the way and it doesn't quite come off as smoothly as I would like, except in matters where I really don't know wtf I'm saying/talking about.
I am never one to get in the way of the tooting of horns. :->
How about becoming a professional party planner? You can be artistic, culinary, detail oriented and make nice money.
Ever think about going back to the artist thing?
you are starting to suck at this blogging thing - where are you girl?
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