Take the Credit.

The movie Big Eyes tells the true story of Artist Walter Keane and his wife, Margaret. In the late 1950s and early '60s, Walter Keane achieved unbelievable fame and success with portraits of saucer-eyed waifs.

However, no one realizes that Margaret is the real painter behind the brush. Although Margaret is horrified to learn that Walter is passing off her work as his own, she is too meek to protest too loudly. The truth finally comes to light when the Keanes' marriage ends, and a lawsuit follows.

Unfortunately, this often happens in real life, where people do not take the credit they deserve for their accomplishments. I don't want this for you.

Here are some of my tips for taking the credit you deserve:

Tip 1: Speak Up and Tell Your Accomplishments.

Start by telling people what you are working on and what you are accomplishing. The more you do this, the easier it becomes. Many people fear that this can come off as "bragging" (which isn't the case if it is true). Be concise and stick to the facts until you become more comfortable discussing your accomplishments.

Tip 2: Brag Buddies

As you learn to be more comfortable speaking up for yourself, enlist a partner who will be a "brag buddy." That is someone who will tell others of your accomplishments, and you do the same for them. 

Even if you have such a buddy, it is crucial to continue to build the skill of speaking for yourself because brag buddies can leave organizations or may need access promptly to the people that matter. 

Tip 3: Check-Ins

You also want to make sure that you have regular update meetings with key individuals. In these meetings, you not only update people on the status of projects but also mention your accomplishments. Doing this regularly strengthens this muscle and also makes the advocacy more effective - as it does not all come out at year end.

Tip 4: Work on Your Mindset

Mindset is critical to successfully touting your accomplishments. Many people do not tell others about their actions because they fear judgment. You need to reframe that mindset that you only take credit for what you deserve. If you do this, you may help not only yourself and your career but also your organization because it will only benefit fully from your talent if they know what they are.

Tip 5: Set Boundaries

You must refrain from allowing others to take credit for your work or thought leadership. When someone does this, you must politely thank them for expanding on your idea and add a few more points to what they say. One, it is not the right thing. Two, it will adversely impact you if you don't.

At the movie's beginning, Margaret only tells her poodle that she painted the art. That will not advance her in the art world or fulfill her self-esteem. Margaret is allowing herself to live in the shadows. Only when she decides to fight for credit does her life change. Please be like Margaret and take your credit to get the career and life you deserve. No one should wait decades for the recognition they have earned.

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