A few weeks ago, I had a conversation with a senior executive from a multinational company. With over 20 years of experience in global product engineering, he had spearheaded transformative projects, shaped high-performing teams, and delivered products that reached millions of users worldwide. Yet, as he prepared for his next career move, he confessed to struggling with one crucial aspect: articulating his strengths and achievements in a way that sparked meaningful interaction.

What struck me was his humility. Despite an impressive track record, he downplayed his contributions, attributing successes to “the team,” “good timing,” or even “a bit of luck.” His hesitation wasn’t uncommon—it reflects a broader trend even among high-achieving professionals. Leaders, engineers, and aspiring changemakers often find themselves underplaying their value, inadvertently holding back in interviews or career discussions.

This raised an essential question: Why do capable individuals hesitate to showcase their strengths, and more importantly, how can they navigate this challenge without compromising authenticity?

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