When I Took My Degrees Off My Resume, the Work Poured In

Of all the side hustles I’ve had over the years, one of my favorite experiences was working as a brand ambassador for major spirit brands. It wasn’t glamorous in the traditional sense—but it was fun, dynamic, and full of human connection. It was also one of the most humbling lessons I’ve ever had in self-perception vs. value perception.

Here’s what happened.

When I first tried to break into the industry, I submitted my professional resume. The polished one. The one that proudly listed my degrees in Architecture and Environmental Technology. The one that outlined my corporate achievements. The one I believed proved my intelligence, discipline, and ability to deliver.

I got zero callbacks.

Not one.

Eventually, out of frustration (and curiosity), I created a second version of my resume. This one had no mention of my education. None. I stripped it down to just relevant experience—past events, the impressive lineup of spirit brands I had supported informally, and my proven ability to engage consumers.

Suddenly, the offers came flooding in.

Why? Because I stopped presenting what I thought made me worthy and started showcasing what they actually needed.

Here's the powerful truth:

You might be more than qualified to do the thing that’s on your heart—but you’re leading with the wrong part of your story.

Too many people hold back from pursuing what they truly want because they believe they don’t have the “right” credentials. You think because you don’t have the degree, the title, or the certification, you’re not qualified.

But let me ask you: Do you have the experience? The knowledge? The passion? The results?

If the answer is yes, you’re already more equipped than you think.

In my case, I was overlooked not because I wasn’t smart enough, but because I was perceived as overqualified. When I removed the parts of my story that didn’t align with what the hiring brands needed, and focused solely on the value I could deliver, the doors opened.

What’s the lesson here?

Stop waiting to be validated by titles and degrees. Start owning the wisdom you’ve gained through lived experience. Credentials don’t always open doors, clarity and confidence do.

This is one of the themes I dive into in my book, Create Your Own Table: A Guide to Discovering Your Purpose. If you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering whether you’re “qualified” to pivot, to launch something new, or to bet on yourself—I wrote this book for you.

👉 Purchase the book here

And if you're seeking clarity, I’d love to connect. Book your call here.

Sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to shift everything.

You don’t need permission. You need purpose. And purpose already lives within you.

In Love & Light,

Heather