Performance reviews often feel like a chore. But instead of dreading them, what if you could turn them into an empowering conversation that highlights your value and sets the stage for career growth? Writing a Proudest Moments List is a simple but powerful tool to do just that.
Simply put, a Proudest Moments List is a personalized summary of the achievements and contributions that are most meaningful to you and about which you’re most proud. Not only does it showcase your accomplishments, but it also changes the dynamics of the review—for you and your boss. Here’s why you should take the time to write one (and the psychological reasons behind its benefits).
It Keeps the Focus on Your Achievements
Performance reviews can sometimes feel overly critical, leaving employees feeling undervalued. A Proudest Moments List ensures that your contributions don’t get lost in the shuffle. Managers are often juggling multiple responsibilities and may not remember every accomplishment from the past year, but you can help bridge that gap.
For example, if you led a key project that boosted revenue or resolved a major issue for a client, write it down. Be specific about what you did, how it impacted the team or company, and what you learned in the process. This clarity not only makes it easier for your manager to appreciate your efforts but also sets a positive tone for the review.
It Signals Confidence and Ownership
Psychologically, sharing your proudest moments signals confidence and ownership of your role. Managers want to see employees who take pride in their work, and presenting your list shows that you’re self-aware and proactive. It demonstrates that you’re not waiting for validation; you know your value and are ready to articulate it.
This self-assertion can also subtly influence how your manager perceives you. Research shows that people tend to anchor their judgments based on initial impressions. Starting the review by highlighting your successes can anchor the conversation in a positive frame, making subsequent discussions about goals or challenges more constructive.
It Boosts Your Motivation and Well-Being
Writing a Proudest Moments List isn’t just about impressing your boss; it’s also about reminding yourself of your strengths and progress. Reflecting on your achievements can foster a sense of accomplishment and gratitude, and helps reinforce your internal locus of control.
This practice is a form of savoring; the ability to fully appreciate positive experiences. By reliving your proudest moments, you reinforce your belief in your capabilities and set a foundation for future success. It’s a confidence boost that primes you to tackle the next challenges in your career.
It Can Improve Your Manager’s Feedback
A study on performance appraisals revealed that managers dread performance reviews as much as employees do. They worry about saying the wrong thing or failing to acknowledge key contributions. Your Proudest Moments List helps alleviate that pressure by giving your boss a roadmap of what to highlight.
When managers see specific examples of your achievements, it makes their job easier and their feedback more relevant. Instead of generic praise, they can recognize your efforts with meaningful, detailed comments. This creates a virtuous cycle of positive reinforcement, making the review more engaging and impactful for both parties.
It Shifts the Narrative from Critique to Collaboration
Performance reviews can sometimes feel like a critique session, with employees bracing for feedback on what they did wrong. A Proudest Moments List shifts the narrative. By starting with your accomplishments, you turn the review into a collaborative discussion about how to build on your successes.
For instance, if one of your proudest moments involved spearheading a project, you can segue into a conversation about taking on more leadership opportunities. This proactive approach positions you as someone focused on growth and improvement, which can influence how your manager views your potential.
It Helps Avoid Bias and Oversights
Managers, like everyone else, are prone to cognitive biases. One common bias is the “recency effect,” where recent events overshadow accomplishments from earlier in the year. Your Proudest Moments List ensures that key wins from months ago aren’t forgotten.
And performance reviews are often skewed by factors unrelated to actual performance, like personality traits or workplace politics. By presenting your list, you bring objective evidence to the table, reducing the likelihood of bias and ensuring a fairer evaluation.
How to Write Your Proudest Moments List
Here are some tips to create an effective list:
- Be Specific: Focus on measurable achievements. Instead of saying, “I improved customer satisfaction,” write, “I increased customer satisfaction scores by 15% by implementing a new feedback system.”
- Align with Company Goals: Highlight accomplishments that align with your team’s or organization’s objectives. This reinforces your value in contributing to the company’s mission.
- Show Growth: Include moments where you overcame challenges or learned new skills. For example, “I taught myself a new software program, which saved the team 10 hours a week.”
The performance review process is often flawed, but writing a Proudest Moments List gives you control over the narrative. It helps you advocate for yourself, reinforces your value, and fosters a positive, forward-thinking discussion with your manager.
So before your next review, take the time to reflect, write, and prepare. Not only will you feel more confident, but you’ll also subtly nudge your boss to recognize and support your contributions. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your career trajectory.