A humblebrag is a flex that’s embarrassed to be one. Just say you’re proud.

Wrapping good news in a complaint is a way of getting the credit without the risk of looking like you wanted it. Everyone hears the brag anyway, and now they also hear that you were hoping they would not notice. The wrapping is what makes it awkward, not the news. Plain pride is easier to be happy for.

Next time something goes well, try saying it straight. Six words with no sighing attached, then let the conversation move on. If that feels like too much, tell one person who you know will be glad.