“There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action. And because there is only one you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium… the world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, nor how valuable, nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open.” …”
~ Martha Graham
I’ve worked with several people lately who underrate their worth. They think they are worthless or not ready to do what they really want because they don’t have a degree or formal training, need to lose weight, don’t look right, have enough experience or aren’t a ‘professional’ enough. With these beliefs they close the door and cut themselves off from possibilities and potentials.
What each of them completely overlooks is the value they do bring. Whether it’s launching a business, creating art or comforting a friend the value they bring is themselves. They bring all that they are, their life experience, their feelings, caring, joy, and who they’ve become. They bring what only they can bring – their self. That is their true gift and a gift that is unique and cannot be duplicated. It is an enthusiasm, a flair, a wisdom that no one else has.
As a sales manager many years ago I often found a new, excited sales person could out sell a seasoned professional because not having learned and believed certain things were impossible she went out and did them with such enthusiasm that all barriers disappeared,
Where are you holding back because you doubt your worth or value? Write down what gifts you bring to your new endeavor (or an old one you’re resurrecting), begin seeing yourself from a new perspective, what would you do differently if you knew you had value? What life force wants to be born through you? Don’t hold back! Keep yourself open!