You Rise to What You Believe You Are Worthy Of
One of the most important lessons I have learned is that in life you don’t rise to what you believe is possible. You rise to what you believe you are worthy of. Two people can face the same opportunity, yet one runs with it while the other hesitates. The difference is simple—one person believes they are worthy of success.
This insight shapes how I approach leadership and mentoring. If you want people to succeed, start by believing in them and showing them that belief. It’s not just about saying it—you have to act on it.
Putting a 10 on Someone’s Head
John Maxwell talks about the idea of putting a 10 on someone’s head when you meet them. This means assuming the best, treating them with respect, and giving them the chance to show their full potential. I apply this every day with my teams. If I see someone struggling, like Riyad preparing to speak in front of a congregation, I don’t just tell him, yes, you can do it. I guide him. I break down the steps, bring in input from others who have succeeded, and work with him to structure his talk.
It’s about more than motivation. It’s about clarity, support, and showing the person that you truly believe in their potential. When people feel seen and believed in, they rise to meet the standard.
Compartmentalising Leadership and Relationships
Believing in someone does not mean avoiding accountability. This is where many leaders struggle. You must learn to compartmentalise. Holding someone accountable does not damage your relationship if you approach it correctly.
If I need someone’s validation to feel good about myself, I cannot hold them accountable. That is dangerous. Instead, I must trust that my belief in them is strong enough that accountability is seen as guidance, not criticism. This requires courage, honesty, and clear boundaries, but it strengthens both performance and trust.
Clarity, Trust, and Belief in Action
The key to effective leadership is clarity, trust, and consistent belief in others. When I invest time in showing people that I believe in them and then hold them accountable without letting personal validation interfere, the results are remarkable. People become confident, capable, and motivated to take responsibility.
This approach is what sets apart leaders who inspire from those who simply manage. It’s not about grand speeches or flashy gestures—it’s about understanding human worth, giving support, and maintaining accountability.
Conclusion: Lead by Believing in Worth
If you want to see your team succeed, start by believing they are worthy of it. Show it in your actions, give them guidance, and hold them accountable without needing validation for yourself. When you do this, you create an environment where people rise to their true potential, and leadership becomes a force for growth, trust, and achievement.
Dr Imraan Choonara is a global keynote speaker, leadership strategist, entrepreneur, and mentor with nearly three decades of experience empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.
His work has impacted thousands of lives across more than 30 countries—including the UAE, Malaysia, South Africa, and beyond. As a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader, Dr Imraan brings firsthand experience of building and growing ventures, allowing him to speak not just from theory—but from the trenches of real-world business.
A Maxwell Leadership Certified team member, Imraan is known for blending corporate insight with entrepreneurial acumen and timeless human values. He brings a unique energy and clarity to every stage, meeting room, and coaching session, inspiring transformation from the inside out.
If you’re ready to focus on personal growth, strengthen your leadership, or inspire your team, Contact Dr Imraan Choonara to assist. Book a one-on-one session with Dr Imraan Choonara to develop yourself intentionally, or invite him for a speaking engagement to motivate and guide your team toward personal excellence.
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By Dr Imraan Choonara
