5 Hard Truths I’ve Learned About Myself (And What They Might Reveal About You Too)
It’s one thing to know who you are on paper—your titles, your wins, your skills. It’s another to confront who you are in quiet moments, under pressure, or when no one is watching.
These aren’t just “traits.” They’re truths I’ve had to learn the hard way. And maybe, they’ll offer you a mirror too.
1. I’m Wired for Impact—Not Just Success
Metrics are great. Milestones matter. But what lights me up isn’t a leaderboard—it’s a lightbulb moment in someone else’s eyes.
I’ve learned I’m not here to win. I’m here to wake people up—to something bigger, deeper, and more aligned.
But here’s what’s tricky about that: Because I move fast and think clearly, I often push harder when others can’t keep up. And that drive? It can isolate.
Reflection: Sometimes “doing it all” is less about productivity and more about not trusting others to match your pace—or your standards. Learning to receive support without guilt has been part of my healing.
2. I Lead Boldly—But Process Quietly
People see me as a source of clarity and strategy. They come to me when they need direction or confidence.
But when I need space? I retreat. I recalibrate in silence. I try to out-strategize my burnout.
What I’ve learned: Silence isn’t always stillness. It’s sometimes a mask for struggle. And for the people who rely on your energy—disappearing without context can feel like disconnection.
Let people in before you hit the wall. You don’t have to carry it alone.
3. I’m Addicted to Possibility
I can find potential in anything. A pivot, a partnership, a project—it all looks doable in my head.
That’s the visionary’s gift. But it’s also the visionary’s trap.
Because I don’t always say “yes” with capacity. I say “yes” with intuition—then realize too late that I’ve overcommitted.
Hard truth: Just because you can imagine the outcome doesn’t mean it’s yours to execute. Your bandwidth matters. So does your body.
4. I Crave Connection—But Struggle to Be Seen
I know how to build community. I know how to create space where others feel safe, heard, celebrated.
But for me to be vulnerable while still in process? That’s tough.
I want to be admired for my strength and my softness. But I sometimes fear people can’t hold both.
Behind the scenes: I’ve curated a presence that looks polished. But like most people—I’m still healing, still questioning, still navigating shadows. And I’ve had to unlearn the belief that being seen in my mess makes me less worthy.
It doesn’t. And it won’t.
5. My Intuition Is My Superpower—And I Still Second-Guess It
What I finally see: Your intuition isn’t a luxury—it’s your compass. And the cost of ignoring it is far greater than the risk of trusting it.
Final Thought
You don’t need to relate to all five of these truths.
Even if one made you pause—sit with it. Write about it. Talk to someone you trust.
These insights came from years of doing it the hard way. But maybe they’ll save you a little time—and a lot of self-doubt.
If any of this resonated, I’d love to hear from you.
Which of these hit home the most? And if you’re open to it—share this article with someone else who might need it.
We’re not alone in our lessons.
Thank you for sharing these valuable insights. Recognizing the importance of listening to ourselves can indeed be a game-changer. Your reflection on personal truths is an inspiring reminder for many.
Such valuable insights! Listening to ourselves is often the most important step toward clarity and growth. The journey of self-discovery can lead to profound realizations. Thank you for sharing these truths and encouraging others to reflect on their experiences.
Founder @Secret Knock | Joint Venture Publishing | .Prompt
5moGreat
Brand Alignment & Growth Strategy for B2B Leaders · President & Chief Strategist, Young Company · Advisor, SMART Battery Analytics
5moI love this! It feels so authentic to how I see you show up. So often I see you making magic happen but staying behind the scenes. Now it makes sense; you wanting the impact to be felt more than you want to win or be a star and I have mad respect for that. Being addicted to possibility - ✋️um yeah, I also have that problem. Is there a support group or anything? 🤪
Private Mortgage Banker at Wells Fargo - NMLSR ID 453515
5moMaresa, I'm a big fan of your analysis of life and learning (reflectionary teaching). Always enjoy your posts and find hidden truths about myself in most of them. Keep up the great feedback. 👍