Do You Know How Good You Are?

There is a big difference between being cocky and being confident in your talents and expertise. Unfortunately, this distinction is lost on many of the highly intelligent and accomplished women I work with as an executive coach. The reasoning seems to be "if I can do it, how hard can it be?"

This mind-set can be self-defeating in at least two ways. It blocks legitimate efforts to advance your career by letting people know all the amazing things you do. It also leads to setting unrealistic expectations for co-workers, who often don't measure up. The result may be frustration and unproductive working relationships.

So how do you answer the question "how good am I?" Look at the facts about your accomplishments. Check in with your mentors. Take the praise and honors you receive to heart. Believe in yourself!