If we put a price on value, what would it be? A thousand dollars? A million? Most likely, the answer would vary depending on the person and scenario. Some might even say it’s priceless.
When it comes to value, we often look outward and consider other people’s opinions of us. It’s hard not to, because our environment and relationships shape us. That’s why words, paired with actions, are vital to our well-being.
How many times have we heard people say, “be kind to yourself.” Often, we’re harder on ourselves than on others. Showing more self-compassion and less self-criticism can be challenging at first. Being kind goes a long way—because if we start with ourselves the rest will follow. Let’s believe in our abilities. Let’s take more chances and seize opportunities. The first step might include getting out of our comfort zone.
To do this, I often challenge myself with the question, “Marci, when was the last time you did something for the first time?” (By the way, there’s nothing wrong with a little self-talk!) New experiences offer me the opportunity to change my perception of value. They allow me to see another side and expand my understanding of the world around me. There’s even value in being terrible at something new. That’s how I grow and accept that perfection isn’t as important as passion and resilience.
It’s important to curate your own value because it leads to empowerment. Instead of looking outward, look inward and ask yourself, “How do I want to live my life?” In addition to trying something new, you could:
- Volunteer: Volunteering helps communities, builds leadership skills, and provides a sense of purpose
- Increase knowledge: Upskilling keeps you competitive within your profession and industry
The more value we see in ourselves, the more value we bring to the table. And while on your journey, don’t forget to pay it forward. Encourage colleagues, family, and friends to discover their worth and purpose. Be someone’s shining light. Let’s continue to lift ourselves and each other up.
Article written by Marci D. Thompson, chief executive officer of SMPS and the SMPS Foundation. She can be reached at marci@smps.org.
