From Confidence to Clarity
A few weeks ago, I had the incredible opportunity to meet someone who truly left a lasting impression on me. I went in thinking I was prepared—but I wasn’t. I relied too much on my experience and accomplishments, believing they would speak for themselves. But the truth is, I underestimated the moment and, most importantly, the person in front of me. I felt I wasted her time.
Yet, she didn’t dismiss me. Instead, she gave me a second chance—a rare and generous act. But even with that second chance, I let my nerves get the best of me. I stumbled again.
What struck me, though, wasn’t just the fact that I had failed twice. This time, though, she gave me something more valuable than just feedback. She challenged me to look beyond my resume and accomplishments. She asked me to reflect on who I am—not just what I’ve done.
For as long as I can remember, whenever someone asked me, “Why do you think you’re the best fit for this position?” my answer was always a list of achievements:
And while all of that is true, I now realize I was missing something crucial. Those achievements didn’t happen in isolation. They were a result of who I am—my character, my ability to lead, my intuition, and my emotional intelligence.
I’ve always had an instinct for recognizing opportunities. I can read people, sense shifts in their emotions through body language, eye contact, and tone of voice. These are skills that have served me well, but I’ve rarely given them the credit they deserve.
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The person I met saw that in me, even when I failed to see it in myself. She recognized those qualities during our very first meeting. And that’s what hurts the most—knowing that I didn’t rise to the occasion and let her down. I’m mad at myself for being overconfident, for thinking my past successes were enough, and for not fully appreciating the second chance I was given.
It feels like getting close to something—or someone—you’ve always wanted, only to watch it slip through your fingers. Like getting close to your crush, but instead of a happy ending, you’re left with a crash.
But I’m not giving up. I’ve learned that every setback is an opportunity to reflect and grow. I’m grateful for the experience, even if it didn’t go as I hoped. Meeting her was a privilege, and it taught me lessons I won’t forget.
Her colleagues are truly fortunate. She may come across as serious, meticulous, and hard to please, but I admire her for it. She’s straightforward, honest, and fair—qualities that are hard to find.
As for me, I’m walking away from this experience with a renewed sense of purpose. I’m someone who now understands that it’s not just about what you’ve done—it’s about who you are and how you show up. I’ve been reminded of the importance of humility, self-awareness, and continuous growth.
I think I am someone who is ready to embrace those lessons and become better—not just professionally, but personally. This isn’t the end of the story. It’s the beginning of a better one.