Many years ago, when I was working with international organizations and loving what I did, someone told me I’d never make it.

Not to management.

Not to a senior role.

They said it like it was fact. And for a moment, it stung.

But I’m glad I knew my truth. I didn’t let their version of me become mine.

Fast forward to today, I recently coached someone who made a bold move in the opposite direction:

She left a high-paying job for one that paid less.

At first glance, it might seem reckless. But for her, it felt right. It was the first time in a long time she loved doing the work. And that was worth more than the paycheck.

That’s the power of knowing your truth.

She knew hers. And she didn’t let anyone else define it for her.

Not the labels people place on you.

Not the “shoulds” rooted in fear or ego.

Not the version of success that doesn’t fit your life.

And you don’t even need to know your truth right away. Just like in my story, it may take time. It may even mean walking away from something secure.

Your truth may not even make sense to others. But it only needs to make sense to you.

That’s the version you get to build your life on.

#EmotionalIntelligence #CrossCulturalTeams #AI #CareerGrowth