How do you know what you are capable of? I would like to know your experience with personal growth. Several years ago, while working in a clothing store, one of our regular customers said, “Why do you work here when you are so capable?” She went on, asking why I didn’t go to college. I did go to college and have a Bachelor’s Degree. I graduated college with honors. Because she saw me stocking clothes and cleaning out dressing rooms, a servant to sometimes very condescending women, she assumed this was the highest I’d aimed. I had taken that job because I felt isolated working alone and it led to me meeting friends I’ll have for life and a support system that I would later need immensely. I didn’t need to tell her any of that, I just smiled. Recently, I turned down a job because I did not feel capable. That’s not a failure. I knew quickly that the moving parts of this job were not yet aligned in a way in which I would be able to be successful. I’m sure that was disappointing but I knew it wasn’t the right time. Very recently, I was told that I wasn’t seen as personally capable of a specific task. Those words would have crushed me in years past, but this time, it was ok. Maybe there’s a better fit for their needed outcome. That is ok. Do I know I am capable? Yes. Do I have to prove it to anyone? Absolutely not. Is it ok they didn’t choose me? Yes, it is. It’s feels wonderfully affirming to have someone else think you are capable but putting too much weight in that also has the pendulum swing of disappointment when someone doesn’t see capability in you. That might be a catalyst and challenge for you to learn or prove yourself, but it also may be an opportunity to step back and move on to other things for the moment. I’ve done a lot over the years to help increase my own self worth, which often used to be tied to the approval of others. It’s ok to say no if you need to. To not be chosen doesn’t mean you are less. *Tool made by @hillview_tool. Tony doesn’t sponsor me or ask me to post his work, I do it because he’s an incredibly talented and kind soul who I enjoy working with. It’s an honor to engrave his work. The final reveal is coming soon 😊*