Believe in Your Abilities

The crisp morning air bit at my face, a promise of fresh powder and sunshine. The weather forecast was favorable, the avalanche risk moderate, and the temperatures bracingly cold. I set out on a snowshoe hike, eager to reach a summit offering a breathtaking 360-degree view. But almost immediately, something unexpected occurred – a remark that shook my confidence and prompted me to confront a familiar pattern.

As I began the slightly steeper section of the trail, a skier stopped to greet me. Without preamble, he suggested I choose a different route, claiming this one was beyond my capabilities.

It was a jarring moment. I’ve been exploring these mountains for decades, but such unsolicited criticism felt like a sudden, unexpected blow. Why would I be unable to complete it? Were there challenging sections ahead, unfavorable conditions, or hidden dangers? No, none were apparent.

I had meticulously planned the tour, carefully studying the avalanche bulletin and confident in my physical condition and skills. In fact, I was familiar with this route, having tackled it numerous times over the winters. Then, a complete stranger, someone with no knowledge of me, declared I wouldn’t succeed… without offering a single reason or justification. Just a simple, “You can’t do that.” Was he experiencing difficulties elsewhere? Did he encounter an obstacle? Who knows.

The comment instantly recalled a former supervisor who once questioned my ability to lead a technical project – despite my proven track record of success. During my professional life, I’ve heard similar remarks from male colleagues who seemed intent on undermining me.

If this observation had come from a good friend, someone with expertise, and a genuine understanding of my abilities, I would have given it more consideration. I would have trusted their judgment, knowing they wouldn’t say this without a valid reason.

Today, I don’t accept everything people tell me. Or, when they attempt to explain why I’m going to fail at something, with the dismissive phrase, “You can’t do that.” Just like that. Without knowing me or my capabilities. Or maybe they know perfectly well that I can do it, because I’ve proven it repeatedly, but they want to suppress me. So that they can better promote themselves.

It is a widespread human characteristic that can be observed throughout professional environments.

What I’m saying is: disregard such comments entirely. How can people who don’t know you possibly assess your potential? Simply ignore unqualified remarks and judgments from strangers unfamiliar with you. If they believe you lack the ability to do something, dismiss it.

Pay attention only to well-meaning advice from trusted friends who are knowledgeable, experts in their field, and capable of evaluating the situation. And who know you well and you trust. Like a mountain guide you’ve hiked with before. Or close friends, experts in their professional field.

In the past, I’ve often believed these individuals, thinking they might possess superior insight. Not anymore. And for good reason.

And, of course, I managed to navigate the slope without significant difficulty, choosing the optimal route and maintaining my physical condition. Another wonderful winter day on snowshoes concluded.

Believe in your abilities. Don’t allow yourself to be discouraged or talked down to by people. Neither on the mountain, nor in your professional life. That’s how you progress.