Certification Mania?

Apr 11 / Boris Nedwed
Discovering the root of one's relentless pursuit of certifications can be a profound journey of self-discovery, especially when viewed through the lens of Human Design.

The willpower function, also known as the heart or ego center, plays a pivotal role in shaping our sense of self-esteem and worth.
For those with an open or undefined willpower function, with 63 % representing a significant portion of the population, there exists a potential for feelings of worthlessness, or a compulsion to prove oneself. And in today's business world that is expressed and demonstrated in so many different certificates.
Is this a Certification Mania?

My own journey is a testament to this dynamic. A myriad of certifications—ranging from several SAP consultant certfications,  NLP Coach, Human Design Analyst, BG5 Business & Career Consultant, Project Management Professional, Business Auditor, and even to Certified Cryptocurrency Trader (which I passed today  )—paints a picture of an insatiable quest for validation through academic and professional achievements.

Yet, upon reflection, the 'why' behind this relentless pursuit remained elusive, until a deeper dive into my own Human Design chart offered clarity.
My chart revealed two critical traits: the 48th Gate of Depth and the 62nd Gate of Details. These aspects drive an inherent desire to delve deeply into subjects, to understand and master the minutiae.
But the true catalyst for this pursuit lies in my energy, characterized by my Career Type as a Classic Builder. This design means that once a project or area of study sparks my energy, I commit to it wholeheartedly, undeterred by potential challenges or moments of stagnation.
This understanding reframes the pursuit of certifications not as a mere quest for external validation but as a reflection of my intrinsic nature. The satisfaction comes not from the accolades themselves but from the process—engaging deeply with a subject, overcoming plateaus, and ultimately, completing what I set out to do.
It's a step-by-step journey, not a sprint, and certainly not an endeavor suited for multitasking.

This insight doesn't negate the value of the certifications I've earned but rather enriches it, offering a more nuanced understanding of my motivations.

It highlights the importance of aligning one's endeavors with their inherent design and recognizing that the drive to prove oneself can be a powerful force, provided it's channeled in a manner that's true to one's nature and capabilities.

For me, and perhaps for many others with an open willpower function, the path to fulfillment lies in embracing our design, understanding our motivations, and finding satisfaction in the journey itself, not just the destination.

The quest for certifications raises an intriguing question: do they truly enhance our worth or knowledge?
My perspective, shaped by personal experience described above and understanding of Human Design, suggests it hinges on the motive behind pursuing a certificate.

If it's to satisfy external expectations or prove oneself, the essence is lost. Despite being capable in my professional roles, I've declined exams that were aimed merely at enhancing my CV without igniting my intrinsic motivation.

Proud of my achievements? Absolutely. But to me, the essence lies not in the certificates but in the experience and application of knowledge. It's the love for what I do, not the accolade, that drives me.