LaMondre Pough has SMA type 2 and lives in Columbia, South Carolina, where he is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and podcast host of “My Big Full Authentic Life.” He shares a shift in perception that can empower people with disabilities who are entering the workforce.

When I think about employment, I think of how much of our identity is tied to what we do. Think about it. When we introduce ourselves, it’s usually, “Hey, I’m LeMondre Pough and I’m a trainer and consultant,” or, “Hey, I’m Brian Whoever, and I’m XYZ.” So we tie employment so close to who we are, our vocations, to who we are. It’s a part of our identity.

But I want you to know something. When you start to think about employment as a person with SMA and as a person with a disability in general, I need you to understand this: You always need to approach it as to what value you bring to the table. But let me tell you this: You bring a tremendous amount of value.

I need you to understand this, that organizations and businesses and corporations hire people because they’re looking to solve a problem. Because you are a natural problem-solver, just by virtue of your life, you bring a unique perspective to the table. That’s valuable. People are looking to have problems solved and you bring that to the table.

So never devalue yourself. Don’t act like those who are employing you are doing you a favor. The truth is, hiring you is probably the best decision they ever made because they have a natural born problem-solver that comes with fresh perspectives and different insights. Always know your value. Always know your worth. And make them give it to you.