Ain't Too Ashamed to Celebrate

Every year, I sit in the audience during the TAGITM Awards Luncheon, genuinely inspired by the nominees. Sometimes I catch myself thinking, "We've done that," or "My team has achieved great results too." But I've never submitted a project of my own.

I'm not alone. Many members don't apply. It's not because they haven't done anything worthy, but because they don't always recognize the impact of their own work.

So why aren't more of us celebrating? I think there are a few reasons:

1.    We think we're just doing our jobs.

We deliver systems, solve problems, and keep the city running. We see it as "business as usual," not "award worthy." But, sometimes, what feels routine to us is of great value to others.

2.    We think our project was too simple.

Not every great solution has to be complicated. Creativity, resourcefulness, and measurable impact matter more than complexity. Simple doesn’t always mean simpler!

3.    We think we can't compete.

Smaller cities and smaller IT shops often feel overshadowed by larger organizations and teams. But the awards aren't about size or competition. They're about impact. If your work had a positive impact on your organization, that's huge!

4.    We think it's vain to nominate ourselves.

It's not about boasting, it's about recognizing the value of what you and your team have accomplished. Sometimes we have to lift ourselves and give our teams the credit they deserve, instead of waiting for someone else to do it. Your work matters, and it's worthy of recognition and celebration. If you really can't bring yourself to submit it, tag a TAGITM member to submit it for you.

This year, I want to challenge you to change the narrative. Don't hide behind humility or understate your accomplishments. Whether your project was large or small, if it made a difference to your team or the people you serve, celebrate.

Meaningful work deserves to be celebrated.

You've earned it. Your team has earned it. And TAGITM wants to celebrate it.

So, don't be "too ashamed to celebrate". Submit that project!

Learn more about the TAGITM Excellence Awards and how to apply at https://www.tagitm.org/page/Awards.

 

Fay Young, PMP®, CGCIO™ 
Information Technology Director
City of Port Arthur