Wanting More Isn’t Greedy—It’s Growth
“Be grateful. Don’t ask for too much.” That message keeps talented people small. Gratitude and ambition are not opposites—you can appreciate your job and reach for the next level. Wanting more is a sign of life.
Diagnose What “More” Means
- More impact: bigger problems, clearer outcomes.
- More growth: new skills, harder feedback, visible work.
- More pay: compensation that matches market + impact.
- More fit: values alignment, sane pacing, better leadership.
Small Bets > Vague Dreams
- Skill bet (90 days): pick one skill; build one proof project.
- Project bet: ship something you can show (demo, dashboard, prototype).
- People bet: 3 conversations with folks doing your next job.
Build Your Receipts File
- Use CAR stories (Context–Action–Result) for each win.
- Save metrics, screenshots, testimonials, and before/after numbers.
- Send a monthly “What We Shipped/What We Learned” note to stakeholders.
Clean Asks That Get Yeses
- Scope: “I can deliver X by Q2 if we add Y resource or drop Z.”
- Title/comp: “My role maps to Senior on the ladder. Here are outcomes A/B/C. Can we align level and comp this cycle?”
- Growth: “I want exposure to initiative P; what results would earn me that seat?”
Meeting Mechanics for Visibility
- Pre-wire decisions with a one-pager (options, risks, recommendation).
- Open with the decision statement; end with next steps and owners.
- Cut interruptions kindly: “I’ll finish, then keen to hear your view.”
When “Be Grateful” Is Gaslighting
- Values conflict is framed as attitude.
- Raises/promotions vague; feedback non-specific.
- Retaliation for boundary-setting or credit claims.
Document, escalate with receipts, and expand your options. Gratitude doesn’t require tolerating dysfunction.
Negotiate Without Apology
- Bring market ranges + your receipts; ask for the top of band if you’re already performing there.
- Trade-offs: more scope/responsibility only with title/comp alignment.
- Silence after the ask—let them talk.
Exit, If Needed, With Dignity
- Keep building proof-of-work while interviewing.
- Leave with references and a “What I built here” summary.
- Choose rooms that applaud your growth, not punish it.
90-Day Growth Plan
- Weeks 1–2: receipts file + three CAR stories; define “more.”
- Weeks 3–6: deliver one proof project; pre-wire one decision.
- Weeks 7–9: clean ask conversation (scope/title/comp) with data.
- Weeks 10–12: widen options: 3 outside conversations or internal stretch role.
Final Thoughts
You can be grateful and ambitious. Wanting more is not greed; it’s growth. Ask clearly, ship proof, and put your talent where it can breathe.
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