Feeling proud? You did something that mattered, and you know it.
In short
Feeling proud means you did something that mattered, and you know it. Healthy pride is a quiet recognition of effort, growth or courage, in yourself or in someone else. Many people were taught to hide it, yet allowing it is how you notice how far you have come.
How it differs
Arrogance needs others to be smaller, healthy pride doesn't. Accomplished is about a result, proud can also be about who you have become.
On the feelings wheel, proud sits under joyful, next to grateful, playful. Finer words for it: accomplished, valued.
How it can show up
- You stand a little taller
- You want to tell someone
- You smile when you think about it
- You feel capable
One small step
Say it once, out loud or on paper: I am proud that I... And then think of who helped you get there and tell them.
The perfect breath: every day. Before sleep, before a hard talk, at your desk.
A better question
What exactly are you proud of, and who helped you get there?
Ask it yourself, or someone you care about.
A sentence for your lock screen
“I did something that mattered. I can be proud of it.”
Questions
Is it okay to feel proud of yourself?
Yes. Recognising your own effort is healthy and helps you keep going.
How do I tell someone I am proud of them?
Be specific: "I'm proud of how you handled that conversation." Specific pride means more than general praise.
Words close to proud
More feelings
OverwhelmedLonelyFrustratedResentfulInsecureWorriedIrritatedHurtLowConfusedGratefulContentHopefulRelievedPeaceful
Be kind to yourself
Naming a feeling can help, and it is not therapy. If a feeling is heavy for a long time, or you think about hurting yourself, please talk to someone trained to help: find a free helpline near you.