In our modern, highly competitive world, there’s a pervasive. However, misinterpreted belief: if you do good work and exhibit humility, the results will speak for themselves, and success will naturally follow. This is what David Fagan calls the “Humility Myth,” and it’s something he considers one of the most significant barriers to success for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and experts alike.
At its core, the Humility Myth is the idea that your expertise, hard work, and talent will eventually be noticed and rewarded without the need for actively promoting yourself. It’s the belief that self-promotion is inherently egotistical or disingenuous. However, as Fagan would argue, this myth is keeping too many deserving professionals from achieving the levels of recognition and success they deserve.
The Origins of the “Humility Myth”
Society reinforces the idea that humility is a virtue, often linking it to moral goodness. Cultural values, familial teachings, and even religious ideals emphasize modesty. These teachings can certainly create ethical and thoughtful individuals, but as Fagan points out, they sometimes hinder us in today’s competitive environments, especially in business.
Fagan warns against confusing humility with invisibility. Being good at what you do is one thing, but being recognized for that expertise is another. Failing to engage with personal branding, marketing, or self-promotion can result in becoming, as Fagan calls it, “the world’s best-kept secret.”
Here lies the central tension of the Humility Myth: it tricks individuals into believing that success comes solely from merit. While competence and skill are crucial, they don’t guarantee visibility. In Fagan’s words, “Is it the best realtor or the best-marketed realtor who makes the most money? Is it the best chiropractor, or the best-marketed chiropractor?” Clearly, the latter wins.
Why the Humility Myth Persists
This myth persists because it feels more palatable. Many people are hesitant to engage in self-promotion because:
- Fear of Judgment: They worry they’ll be perceived as arrogant or boastful.
- Lack of Knowledge in Self-Branding: They don’t understand how to market themselves authentically.
- Misinterpreted Virtue: They think “good work will naturally rise to the top” as though the world is innately fair.
- Discomfort with Competition: People often shy away from competing with others and promoting their unique value.
However, Fagan’s insight cuts through these psychological barriers with clarity. He emphasizes that when you fail to answer the critical question — “Why you?” — you forfeit opportunities to competitors who are willing to make their talents known.
Combatting the Myth: Self-Promotion Without Arrogance
Overcoming the Humility Myth doesn’t mean abandoning humility altogether, nor does it call for shameless vanity. Fagan preaches balance — being confident without egomania, visible without becoming “salesy,” and authentic in presenting one’s accomplishments in a way that inspires trust.
Here’s a step-by-step roadmap inspired by Fagan’s teachings:
1. Embrace Self-Worth and Authority
Before you can promote yourself, you must believe that what you offer is worthy of recognition. Confidence in your values and expertise is vital. Fagan underlines that expertise, when supported by results or credible testimonials, deserves to be shared unapologetically.
For instance, if you’re a fitness coach with proven client success stories, you aren’t “bragging” by showcasing these outcomes — you’re providing proof of your capabilities.
2. Build Your Marketing “War Chest”
One of Fagan’s key concepts is the “War Chest.” Prospective customers and clients only have so much budget, time, and trust to spend. To earn their attention, you must provide evidence of why you’re the best investment over others. This evidence, or your War Chest, might include:
- Testimonials and endorsements.
- Public recognition (e.g., awards, media coverage).
- Social proof, such as before-and-after outcomes or case studies.
- Authorship — writing books or content that showcases authority.
Ask yourself: What makes the answers to “Why you” undeniable?
3. Be Your Own Publicist
Relying on others to “discover” your talents is a passive approach. Instead, take charge of telling your story. In Fagan’s words, “You don’t have to wait for people to write about you and your expertise. You can also write for yourself, leveraging your expertise and connections.”
Writing articles, partnering with media, crafting a personal website, and utilizing social media to showcase your achievements are practical ways to self-promote authentically.
4. Leverage Third-Party Validation
One of Fagan’s strongest strategies is utilizing social proof from third parties to communicate your worth. Publicity, awards, and testimonials aren’t self-congratulatory — they’re testimonials to the truth of your abilities.
As Fagan suggests, this isn’t about telling the world how great you are but allowing others to do it for you. For instance:
- Sharing genuine customer testimonials that highlight your impact.
- Publishing your success stories with permission from clients.
- Featuring interviews or press articles where you’ve been recognized.
A powerful branding example Fagan highlights is strategically using these accomplishments to answer the “Why you” question during pitches, interviews, or marketing content. The evidence should invoke trust and admiration.
5. Reach Icon Status
David Fagan’s concept of becoming an “icon in your industry” ties directly into beating invisibility. Being a celebrity expert in your field is less about vanity and more about perceived authority in the eyes of clients. Whether it’s authorship, public speaking, or awards, having accomplishments that stand out ensures people see you as trustworthy and highly competent.
Stories Make Brands Memorable
Another antidote to the Humility Myth is effective storytelling. Fagan emphasizes the importance of sharing your unique journey or “Hero’s Journey.” By laying out the adversities you’ve overcome, the values you hold, and the purposes you serve, your authenticity builds connections with your target audience.
When products or services seem similar, customers often choose the brand they most admire or identify with. By sharing compelling stories, you allow others to resonate with your journey, naturally overcoming resistance to self-promotion.
Example:
Rather than simply stating, “I am a successful financial coach,” you could share a meaningful story:
“I remember facing overwhelming debt and sleepless nights years ago. Learning the ins and outs of finance wasn’t just about numbers for me — it was about survival, rebuilding trust, and creating a legacy. Today, I help others leave that same stress behind and reclaim financial freedom, just as I did.”
When done right, this storytelling allows others to see your authenticity and align with your “Why you.”
Redefining Humility
David Fagan’s Humility Myth illuminates the problem with waiting passively for success to find you. Expertise is important, but visibility is critical. The remedy isn’t abandoning humility but redefining it. Showcasing your worth, leveraging third-party credibility, building a strong War Chest, and sharing meaningful stories all position you as a force to be reckoned with in your field.
So the question is — after reading this, how will you begin combatting the Humility Myth in your own professional life? Will you craft your “Why you”? Will you intentionally promote your accomplishments? Or will you risk becoming the world’s best-kept secret?
