Toot one's own horn
"Toot one's own horn" is an idiomatic expression that means to brag about oneself or one's achievements. The phrase originates from the literal act of blowing a horn to attract attention, akin to a herald announcing the arrival of someone important. In a figurative sense, it implies drawing attention to one's own accomplishments. Historically, in societies where modesty was valued, self-promotion was frowned upon. This expression, therefore, often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the person is being boastful or self-congratulatory. The underlying message is that it's more virtuous to let one's actions speak for themselves rather than overtly highlighting them.
In modern usage, however, "toot one's own horn" has become more accepted in certain contexts, especially in professional and social media environments where self-promotion is often necessary for career advancement. In such settings, individuals are encouraged to share their successes to build personal brands, gain recognition, and open up new opportunities. While the phrase still retains some of its traditional undertones, the shift towards a more competitive and interconnected world has made it more common and sometimes even expected. The key is to balance self-promotion with humility and ensure that one's achievements are presented in a way that is authentic and not overly boastful.