When faced with my worth, I pondered the common metrics society typically evaluates individuals.
- Financial wealth is based on financial assets, income, and material possessions.
QUESTION: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU LOSE IT ALL?
2. Accomplishments: based on achievements, successes, and societal contributions.
SURVIVING IN THIS FRACTURED WORLD IS A TRIUMPH IN ITS OWN RIGHT
3. Character is determined by a person’s integrity, honesty, kindness, and moral values.
YOUR UPBRINGING DOES NOT DETERMINE YOUR CHARACTER; IT IS A CONSCIOUS CHOICE THAT ANYONE CAN MAKE, REGARDLESS OF THE TOXIC ENVIRONMENT THEY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO.
4. Relationships are based on the quality of a person’s relationships with others, including family, friends, and colleagues.
AT TIMES, IT IS NECESSARY TO ENDURE HARDSHIPS AND GAIN WISDOM BEFORE BEING ABLE TO DISCERN WHAT IS HEALTHY OR TOXIC IN A RELATIONSHIP OR FRIENDSHIP.
HOWEVER, THERE ARE INSTANCES WHERE A POSITIVE CONNECTION CAN BE TAINTED BY THE NEGATIVE INFLUENCE OF JUST ONE INDIVIDUAL.
5. Impact and influence: based on a person’s impact and influence on others, their community, or the world.
IN A WORLD FILLED WITH CORRUPT LEADERSHIP AND SELFISH INDIVIDUALS SEEKING ONLY PERSONAL GAIN, THE MOST DETRIMENTAL INFLUENCE OFTEN COMES FROM THE MEDIA AND SOCIETAL NORMS.
HOWEVER, THOSE WHO HUMBLY STRIVE TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT IN THEIR COMMUNITIES OR THE WORLD DESERVE RECOGNITION AND PRAISE. KUDOS TO THEM FOR THEIR SELFLESS EFFORTS.
While some of these statements may be accurate, it is crucial to understand the full extent of each one.
The five criteria I have outlined for assessing our value are just the tip of the iceberg when hiring employees or making a lifetime commitment.
While money is necessary for survival, placing too much emphasis on wealth can be detrimental.
Reflecting on these ideas, how do I determine my self-worth?
1. I am satisfied with my financial situation.
2. I have achieved many goals and positively contributed to society.
3. I pride myself on my good character, which is rooted in honesty, values, and integrity.
4. Building and maintaining relationships and friendships can be difficult, but I approach them with a generous spirit and avoid selfish, arrogant and conceited individuals.
5. My higher power, God, as I understand him, is my guide, and I rely solely on my actions and efforts to make an impact. I do not seek validation from others, as I am self-sufficient and in control of my path.
In our society, many are consumed by material possessions and the latest trends in fashion and technology. While I appreciate new gadgets, I often find that their value diminishes over time.
When speaking with young individuals about their priorities in life, it became clear that appearances, luxury cars, and wealth were at the forefront of their minds. This focus on material wealth is common.
In my youth, all I desired was financial stability to escape the burdens of everyday life. But deep down, I craved peace, love, and adventure. I never wanted to rely on someone else for happiness or live a meaningless, carefree existence.
Some middle-aged individuals lack a pension, savings, investments, or a stable place to call home, yet they believe they can continue living as they please indefinitely.
However, change is inevitable. As we age, we may have a different energy to sustain our previous lifestyle. If our health deteriorates, we risk losing everything we have worked for.
I am grateful to have strong role models within my family. My Father always prioritised planning for the future and instilled in us the importance of being financially responsible.
While I can’t predict the future, I can rest assured knowing that I have taken the necessary steps to prepare for whatever may come my way.
Many individuals shy away from the reality of ageing, choosing instead to live in the moment without considering the consequences.
But I am grateful for the guidance and wisdom passed down, allowing me to approach life with a sense of security and preparedness.
I used to have a steady job and a pension, but I made some financial mistakes that were entirely my fault.
However, I have since taken responsibility for my actions by accepting my punishment with the justice system, feeling ashamed, and losing some of my possessions.
This was a harsh lesson, but it taught me the importance of being more careful with my finances.
Discovering a career that ignites your passion and gives you a sense of purpose can make life worth living.
No longer are you simply going through the motions of existence. Instead, you are actively pursuing your dreams and making a meaningful impact. And the best part is, when you reach retirement age, you can look back with pride, knowing you have achieved your purpose.
The answer lies within us when pondering the question of our worth. Each of us possesses a unique talent that, when fully utilised, can bring significant value to the world.
I have witnessed individuals who have faced immense challenges and setbacks only to emerge from their struggles with a newfound sense of purpose. By tapping into their inner strength and sharing their stories with others, they have transformed their lives and inspired and uplifted those around them.
It serves as a potent reminder that our worth is not defined by our circumstances but by our resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
In everything, there must be a balance.
Natalie M Bleau
Scripture of Balance
