Credentials don’t give you greater value. They do tell others that you have gone through a particular learning experience (and hopefully acquired a particular skill set or body of knowledge).
Credentials don’t make you better than anyone else. They do give you a common bond with others who have had similar journeys.
Credentials don’t change who you are. They do tell others that you have taken the tests and passed (at the very least).
When pursuing credentials keep your head and heart about you. The acquiring of such credentials will bring with them more responsibility, not less. It will bring new opportunities and close others. It may change the way others see you, but hopefully not those who know you best. Nevertheless, go get that degree, certificate, PhD, or post Doc. Just remember, once you've gotten the credentials, you will still be human, and thats a good thing.