I get it. You don’t like me just because I’m different. My very existence in your circle means you have to watch your language and be on your best behavior. You behave like I’m some token that only got to my role because of some quota. And you never let me forget that I don’t belong. I’m either invisible or the object of your disdain.
Yep, this makes it hard for me to do my best work, but I persevere all the same. Funny thing is that my performance is being rewarded while you stall out. I know you are saying hateful, jealous sh*t behind my back as I get new opportunities. And, yes, it drains the f*ck out of me.
But I have a secret to share with you.
Every time I am marginalized or underestimated, I get stronger. Every time you talk smack, you get weaker.
Every time I hold my head high and ignore the sh*t, I get more grounded in my abilities and self-worth.
Every time you need to put others down to make yourself feel better than, you diminish yourself.
I’ve taken my pain and made it work in my favor. What have you done with your pain? How’s that working for you?
