I’ve always been a perfectionist.

No matter what I’m working on, whether a big or small project, assignment from a client, campaign recommendation for work or something for myself, I put forth 100% effort and make sure the outcome is of the highest quality.

My parents always instilled this work ethic in me, and it’s something I’m proud of.

The pride I take in my work is one of the reasons I’m successful today with my business, career and even my personal life. I fully believe that being proud of every article I write, social media post I create, email I send to a client, or blog post I publish on my website is what helps me be successful and continue to grow my business.

Over the past year as I’ve been pursuing Callahan Communication and working with more clients, I’ve realized how important it is not just to provide high-quality, exceptional work, but to also take pride in it. It’s not enough to complete a well-written and researched article, but I must also feel proud of what I’ve accomplished and excited to show it off.

Towards the middle of last year, I think I lost my pride. I cared more about creating perfect articles, and I stopped enjoying the process of researching, writing and editing. When I sent a piece back to a client, I was more excited to cross it off my to-do list than I was to share it with others. It ultimately hurt me because I stopped enjoying the work, and therefore didn’t want to do any. I didn’t turn as much product for my clients, and I think it hurt some of the relationships I had worked so hard to build.

Whether you’re a student, full-time employed, part time consultant or a business owner, I can’t stress enough to take a few minutes to think about what you’re doing. What are you providing? What is the final outcome? Are you just turning assignments to be done with them, or are you enjoying what you’re doing? Are you happy because the article was well-written and what the client asked for, or are you excited because you’re proud of it?

I like to do the portfolio test: is this piece something I’m going to be happy to put in my portfolio? Will I be proud to link to this, or share it with prospective clients? Or will it be something I leave off of my list because you can tell there’s no passion or pride behind it?

You have to be proud of what you do, what you accomplish, and how you get there. It’s what will continue to push you to be the best, grow your business, get the promotion, add clients, and remain passionate about what you’re doing. 

Plus, when you have pride in what you provide your clients, they will be even more happy to work with you. Win, win!