Why do we undervalue our own journey and skills

Why do we undervalue our own journey and skills?

Last week I was fortunate to be able to have a virtual catch up with a new connection.

They are on the other side of the world, we are at different stages in our career and work in very different fields.

Yet, the connection and time we took to catch up was great.

He asked me some questions about leading a team, particularly focusing on how to be a better communicator when leading remotely.

My response was focused around getting to know what works for his people, how they appreciate being communicated with and understanding how he communicates.

The light bulb moment for my new connection was when I suggested that being clear on your expectations, and WHAT THIS LOOKS LIKE, can be the turning point for teams.

We all assume that others understand what we are saying and the expectations we set – yet all too often we interpret these things differently.

My light bulb moment was when I was complimented on my career to date.

That I have navigated through different sectors, led diverse teams, delivering large scale operational projects.

And while I ‘know’ this…… I just don’t see what I have done as anything particularly special.

Which got me thinking about the valuing (or not) of our journey and our skills.

Why is it that I can articulate my skills, my story, my experiences – but I see these as discrete activities – nothing to write home about.

When it comes to others, I can point out the greatness that they hold, their particular strengths that I admire, and offer support in areas that they are wanting to grow and develop.

So today, I am having a coaching session with myself!

I am going to outline my greatness, my strengths that are admirable, the things that make me unique and me. And I am going to sit in the uncomfortableness that will unfold.

I’m going to use my coaching resource (which you can find as a free download on my services page) and check in with myself about:
👌my personal successes
👌how I am looking after myself
👌if I am being fulfilled, and
👌what I need support with.

Because at the end of the day, I ‘know’ that I am pretty special.

Someone else’s reflection has reminded me of this, so I owe it to myself to put in the ongoing work needed to keep this at the forefront of my mind.