Title: The Underdog’s Journey: Claiming Space as a Consultant
So I’m minding my own business, doing my usual research routine. A YouTube ad pops up—for a college admissions consulting company. As I’m listening, I’m floored. This man is literally saying everything I do. Word for word. And it hit me: my work, my ideas, my talents—they’re all valid, and in demand.
Like many of you, I have a lot of gifts and abilities. And like many of you, I’ve made the mistake of sharing those gifts with people who didn’t have the capacity to see their full potential. Instead of brainstorming possibilities, they argue limitations. That’s not partnership—that’s discouragement.
Here’s the thing: most of my family and friends haven’t worked beside me post-college, so they don’t truly understand how hard I work or how dedicated I am to my craft. The advice they offer? Usually general. And here’s something you need to write down:
You don’t give general advice to a specialist.
I love that quote. It tells you a lot about how people see you. Think about it—would you tell Jordan, Lebron, or Kobe to quit basketball? No. Because once someone is in motion, and they’re that good, the world adjusts. But if someone doessay that, it’s because they don’t believe you’re that good. That’s tough to hear—but it’s the truth.
And yet, our families and friends love us for who we are in the simplest form—and that’s a blessing. The curse? We know there’s so much more inside us than just the simple things people appreciate.
That’s why I call this the underdog’s road. You stay humble. But internally? You know you’re built to win. You carry this quiet confidence that borders on narcissism—but not in an arrogant way. In a way that says, “I know I can do this.”
Truth is, fear isn’t ours. It’s something passed to us by our social circles.
Anyway, back to that commercial—I looked up the company. They had a badge from a national association. So I said, “Why not me?” I’m going to join one too—to find my tribe, get support, and gain formal recognition as an educational consultant working in Higher Education Administration.
I reviewed the requirements, and I more than qualify. I’ve worked in and around schools for over 10 years, successfully improving graduation, retention, and attendance rates. The next person who says, “You need to prove you can work with people,” needs to do their homework. You don’t get to invalidate me just because you don’t know something.
This post is for everyone like me—folks with God-given talents. If we just had the chance to showcase our gifts, the world would benefit. So here’s my plea:
Find a way to get your gift out.
It’s not crazy. It’s just hard. And hard doesn’t mean impossible.
Fun Fact: Every time I’ve opened up and shared my truth with someone outside my usual circle, I’ve come away stronger.
That’s why JustINSPIRE Mentoring exists. We’re here to support you—because I believe in you, even if no one else does.
Be Wise. Be True. JustINSPIRE.
