Noticing myself getting wound up. In a meeting. Where my professionalism is being questioned, albeit subtly so. Or at least, that is my perception. That’s the tone of my inner dialogue.

Do I need to prove my worth?
Do I need to prove my professionalism?
Do I need to prove the questioner wrong? 

In the moment, that’s sure what it feels like. 

But after a few deep breaths…

I land.
I am grounded.
And the answer is No.

I know.
My worth. My professionalism.
That there is no Right or Wrong in this instance (how seldom there are!), and hence, I need not prove anything. It is enough for me to simply show up and respond to what shows up.