Does my environment value me or does it limit me?

Lately, I’ve had several interesting conversations — and they all had one thing in common.

I spoke with people who truly blossomed after leaving environments where they had been undervalued.

What does it look like when, after years of hibernation, you finally get the chance to show what you know?

Opportunities start to open up.

You’re given trust.

You take on responsibility that brings recognition.

You realize how much you actually know and can do.

You feel the wind at your back, an inner strength, and renewed motivation.

Today, my conversation partners are fulfilled and accomplished people. 

Often, the problem really isn’t us.

Sometimes, we’re just in the wrong place.

These days I’ve been watching the inspiring and authentic Zlatan Ibrahimović in “The Champion’s Failure” and truly enjoying it. Even his brilliant career had its “Barca” phase — a club where he simply wasn’t himself, where his value wasn’t recognized. He moved on — to an environment where he could be who he truly is — one of the best! ⚽????

There are many stories like this. We see ourselves in them, or we draw inspiration from them.

But the question is always the same:

Does my environment value me — or does it limit me?