Think about the last time you scrolled through social media. You probably saw at least one engagement post, a gym transformation, a “just got promoted!” humblebrag, or maybe even someone flexing their latest side hustle success.
Now, think about what you didn’t see. When was the last time someone posted, “Just paid off my credit card debt!” or “Hit big on a number bet at the casino – drinks on me!”? Exactly.
We love to share our wins – but only the ones that fit a certain narrative. Some victories are “socially acceptable” to brag about, while others? Not so much.
So why do we cherry-pick our achievements?
“Respectable” Wins vs. “Questionable” Wins
Not all success stories are treated equally. Some wins make you look ambitious, hardworking, or just plain lucky in a way that people admire. Others, though, can make you seem reckless, desperate, or even a little… cringe.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s shareable vs. what’s “better left unsaid”:
Brag-Worthy Wins
● Landing a new job or promotion
● Buying a house
● Completing a marathon
● Losing weight/getting fit
● Traveling to exotic places
The Silent Wins
● Paying off debt
● Winning big at gambling
● Negotiating a huge discount on a purchase
● Getting an inheritance
● Breaking up with a toxic partner
See the difference? The first list makes you look motivated, successful, and disciplined. The second? It’s more complicated.
Money Wins Are Tricky
Talking about money makes people uncomfortable. It’s why people will proudly post their new job title but not the salary bump that came with it.
Winning big on a number bet or at the casino? That’s even touchier. If you made money through sheer luck, people don’t respect it the same way they respect a “hard-earned” paycheck. There’s an unspoken rule that money should be earned through effort, not chance.
It’s the same reason you won’t see someone post, “Just saved $500 by haggling with my landlord!” – even though that’s objectively a win. If it doesn’t fit the narrative of hard work paying off, it stays off the feed.
Some Wins Make Others Uncomfortable
Imagine your friend just announced they paid off $20,000 in credit card debt. You’d be happy for them, right? But what if you were still drowning in your own debt?
Certain achievements – especially financial ones – make people reflect on what they haven’t accomplished yet. It’s easier to celebrate someone’s new job than their debt-free moment because the latter makes us think: Wait, should I be doing that too?
The same thing happens with breakups. If someone announces, “Finally left my toxic relationship!”, it might hit too close to home for people who are still stuck in theirs. So, rather than sharing it, people just move on quietly.
Some Wins Come With Judgment
Even if you’re thrilled about something, posting about it might invite unwanted opinions.
If you brag about your weight loss, someone will likely show up in your comments and say, “Why did you have to lose weight? You looked fine before.” Announce that you bought a house, and you’ll get judged because “your parents surely helped you!”
But gambling wins would attract the most judgment. If you post about a big casino win, someone will immediately think you’re gambling too much – often without even knowing you. Gambling today is not a thing to be judged for – many people bet on sports, even daily, all over the world. It’s a legitimate activity that can help you unwind after a long day at work, and bring some well-deserved fun into your life. People from all over the world fly to Vegas each year and gamble at one of its countless casinos, and brag about it – but if you strike it rich at Betway, you’re judged for your number bets.
If an achievement comes with too many questions, assumptions, or side-eye reactions, most people just skip the post altogether.
Should We Stop Filtering Our Wins?
Maybe. The internet has convinced us that success should look a certain way – grind, hustle, and personal growth only. But real life is messier than that.
Success doesn’t always come from waking up at 5 AM or following a 10-step self-improvement plan. Sometimes it’s making a smart bet, cutting ties with the wrong people, or simply surviving a tough year.
So, if you’re proud of something – even if it’s not Instagram-approved – why not celebrate it?
Have you ever hesitated to share an achievement because it felt “off-limits”? What’s a win you think people should brag about more? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it!