September 4, 2025

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗼𝗴

Hello Reader

Welcome to Level Up Weekly newsletter, where I leverage 19 years in Stanford tech to help emerging leaders think strategically, build influence, and execute with confidence - so you’re seen, heard and valued where it matters most.

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I wasn't born confident.

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In fact, for the longest time, I was the definition of an underdog – unseen, unheard, and overlooked.
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But here's the thing about underdogs: we have something that can't be taught.

Grit

I learned early that success isn't about grand visions or overnight breakthroughs.
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​It's about showing up, day after day, like a turtle steadily moving forward:​
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- When imposter syndrome hit, I kept going
- When doors stayed closed, I built my own paths
- When setbacks came (and they always do), I took one more step
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The funny part? I never imagined I'd become a coach.
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But life has a way of revealing patterns:
- Small experiments add up
- Tiny decisions compound
- Consistent steps create momentum
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Until one day, you look up and realize – that path of small steps led to something meaningful.

Here's what I know:

We're all underdogs in some way.
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None of us starts with perfect confidence, complete clarity, or endless opportunities.
But we all have the power to keep moving forward.
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Because in the end, it's not about starting strong.
It's about staying steady.

🐢 Underdog Power Moves:

If you’re feeling like an underdog today, try these:

Remember

Being an underdog isn't a disadvantage – it's your superpower in disguise.
You’ve got this.