Seeing your self worth
I’ve read hundreds of CVs over the years from people with incredible careers, hard‑earned skills and stories they should be proud of. And yet, when they sit down in front of me, so many genuinely believe they have very little to offer.
They brush off their achievements. They second guess their abilities. They focus on the gaps instead of everything they’ve already done.
Just last week, someone said to me, “Oh, I’ve only done that a few times so it doesn’t really count.” And I remember thinking: If only you could see yourself the way I see you.
We’re not born like this.
Watch a baby learning to crawl or take their first steps. They fall, wobble, face‑plant, and then get up and try again. No hesitation, no second‑guessing, just pure determination.
Or watch children on a playground. They take on challenges they’ve never tried before, convinced they can do it simply because… why wouldn’t they? Self‑doubt isn’t part of their world.
Somewhere along the way, something changes. A harsh manager. A toxic workplace. Criticism that sticks. Life being… life.
Whatever the reason, people stop seeing their own worth.
When I’m working with someone who can’t see their strengths anymore, I think of a book I read with my daughter — Girls Can Do Anything. There’s a little chant in it:
“I’m a girl. I’m fantastic. I’m strong, brave and proud.”
It’s meant for children, but honestly, I think adults could use something like that too.
Because the people I work with aren’t lacking talent or potential. They’re skilled, resilient, experienced, but their confidence is buried under years of doubt and setbacks.
Sometimes we just need a reminder of who we are.
Children have mantras.
Maybe adults need them too.
If you had one, what would yours be?
Connie Giorgi, For Purpose
11 June 2026
For Purpose provides one-on-one personalised coaching.
