Destined to be Worthy
My mentor once told me, “If you don’t know who you are, people will take advantage of you.” I’m usually the one to push the limits in the name of learning, but in this case, I needed to take heed. This advice came to me at a time when I was throwing myself at any and every opportunity that sounded interesting.
I hated my job and I worked at an international company, so I figured I could do anything as long as they put me to use. I also realized my bosses couldn’t care less about my strengths. A job needed to be done, and my butt was filling the seat, therefore, I had to do the job. What I came to learn about myself, the hard way is that I am an impact-driven person. So, there is only so much energy that I’ll give a project that I don’t truly believe in.
This lesson came to me several times since then, and it always reminds me to stay firm in who I am. To see my own value before someone else determines what I’m worth to them. And to not take things personally when someone doesn’t acknowledge the things that I think make me great. As I discovered my vision, I learned how valuable it is to keep that in mind, to keep it safe before someone determines where I’d fit into theirs. Knowing your destination, your dreams, and what makes you uniquely qualified to reach your goals will help you spot opportunities before the next person comes to you with a “great Idea”. You’ll know a great idea when you see one.
Another powerful benefit of knowing who you are is understanding how you can help an organization reach its goals. You’re not powerless, just because you work for an organization. If you find that the company you work for does not offer the opportunities you are seeking, that is a strong sign that you should start looking elsewhere. I learned that the hard way as well; taking a job that was within my reach instead of shooting for the stars where I was meant to be, only to find myself unhappy and unfulfilled 5 months into my new role.
Before you take your next big step, get grounded in who you are and what makes you tick. Get clear on what makes you happy and how you impact other people. Find out what parts of your job you can do without and which parts, even though it might seem monotonous and unfulfilling, are necessary to get you where you want to go.
You don’t need to work on every skill that isn’t a strength, but you must get clear on the strengths you have, the skills you’ve developed, and the skills you need to never be at the mercy of another soul when it comes to your income.
This is a huge focus in the Career Pivot Program that I created for high achievers who are ready to elevate in their careers.
If this resonates with you, how did you finally learn you were worthy?
