It’s tough to swallow being disrespected. It’s a bit worse when it’s in front of your peers and undermines you as a professional. It happens to me more often than I’d like it to and I’m just supposed to sit back, smile and nod.

As a result, I sit here and call into question the very fiber of my professional being. What am I really good at, if anything at all? What skills do I have to offer if what I do offer is not appreciated or wanted? Am I a valuable individual?

I used to think I was good at my job. I used to think I was a skilled young professional with a lot to offer a potential employer. I used to think people wanted me around.

Ask around and I’m pretty sure they’ll tell you something different.