Recently, a coaching client reminded me of a story I heard years ago about value. As I reflected on the story, I realised how it speaks to the experience of recognising your value as a PhD student – something many researchers struggle with, and something I’ve personally felt too.
It goes something like this… (and I wish I could remember who first told it to me – sorry!)
A father gifts his son his old car, but before handing over the keys, he asks him to take it to different places to see how much people will pay for it.
First, the son visits a used car lot, where they offer a modest sum. Then, he tries a pawn shop, where the offer is even lower. Frustrated, he returns to his father and says, “This car isn’t worth much. I’m not even sure I want it—can you just buy me a different one?”
Finally, the father suggests taking the car to one last place, a car club, and show them the car. The place, full of enthusiasts who appreciate classic cars, offers a much higher price. Exclitedly, the son goes to his father and tells him how much they will buy the car for and explains how the car is iconic, rare and sought by many collectors.
The father replies “The right place values you the right way, if you are not valued, it means you are in the wrong place. Those who know and understand your real worth appreciate you. Never stay in a place where no one sees your value.”
It’s a powerful lesson: your value isn’t fixed, but those who recognise and appreciate it define your value.
Imposter Syndrome and Recognising Your Value as a PhD Student
This story overlaps with my previous blog post on imposter syndrome. When we feel like imposters, recognising our value becomes even harder.
Many PhD students and researchers struggle with imposter syndrome – the feeling that their expertise isn’t enough, that their work isn’t valuable, or that they don’t truly belong. I know this feeling well. Even with years of experience, research, and knowledge that should affirm our worth, doubt can creep in. And, we can find ourselves in environments that fail to recognise our value.
Just like the car in the story, your value is not determined by those who overlook it. Those who understand and appreciate your skills, insights, and contributions define your value.
Recognising your value in academia takes more than achievements – it takes the right environment and support.
Finding the Right Support System
The academic journey brings many challenges, not just intellectual ones, but emotional and psychological hurdles too. So, having the right support system around you is extremely important.
Having someone beside you can help you see your value, navigate uncertain times, and find spaces that genuinely appreciate what you bring. For example, a friend or colleague can remind you that you are excellent, or talking through your journey with a coach or mentor.
If you’re struggling with recognising your value as a PhD student, you’re not alone.
Fancy a chat?
If you’re a PhD student or researcher facing imposter syndrome, struggling with confidence, or searching for direction, I’m here to help. Through coaching and mentoring, I support academics in overcoming challenges, refining their communication, and recognising their true worth. Check out more details on my coaching page!
Get in touch today to explore how we can work together.