The Joy of Finding Your Personal Worth

“A box without hinges, key, or lid, yet golden treasure inside is hid.” ~ J. R. R. Tolkien

Are you experiencing the joy of personal wealth?

If not, perhaps you’ve yet to discover that you are a treasure trove of abundance!

I’m not referring to your stock portfolio, liquid assets or real estate. Instead, I’m honing in on your inherent — and unique — self worth. We all have it, but most of us lose sight of our own value as we compare ourselves with others or work toward outward goals, markers and other external pursuits.

There’s a world of wealth living inside of you. Finding your personal wealth and putting it to use will always make you happy.

We often consider engaging in outward activities that will give us a sense of personal worth. For some, that translates into more exercise and better eating habits. For others, it involves applying greater discipline to studies, relationships or career.

But when seeking wealth, many overlook the pursuit of the abundance that dwells in our own vault. When we delve for the treasure within us, we learn joy of knowing that we are wealth incarnate.

I was reminded recently of a personal, seminal event. Over twenty years ago, I tendered my resignation from a corporate career that had defined me for a decade. I loved the challenges and opportunities business leadership afforded, but knew it was time for me to grow in a different way.

My corporate departure coincided with the birth of our first and only child but it was uniquely and, perhaps, cosmically timed. I had learned most of what I’d hoped to gain from corporate America and had no further aspirations along that path.

Separating from a title and enviable income to gain a sense of personal worth appears, at least initially, a paradox. However, I was aware of my tenuous identity. My business success was always tempered with realism. I knew I was replaceable and never made myself comfortable. My office and desk were devoid of personal effects and photos. 

As I measured myself against corporate goals and valued myself through annual income numbers, I knew there was a different kind of wealth to be attained: one that was stable, solid and true. 

The quest to find my own worth apart from a position and income didn’t end with leaving work. It was just the beginning. Freed from corporate constraints, I was able to meander into otherwise unfamiliar realms. Little by little, I started to become acquainted with myself. Pursuing a few personal passions and interests, I discovered some hidden and latent talents. Exploring different opportunities, I realized I could learn new skills.

In addition, when encountering challenges, I learned that there was strength and creativity within me that could overcome them. While traveling, I met others from different backgrounds and disciplines where great exchanges took place. Soon, I realized that my talents and skills were contributing in unique ways to others’ lives.

Somehow, the talents I’d gained in corporate life melded and grew with more recently acquired ones. Together, they formed an eclectic — yet refined and unified — personal tapestry. The journey I’d embarked upon helped expose me to opportunities, experiences and insights that enabled me to view myself in a new and more rewarding light.

As the glistening of dawn follows the dimness of night, I gradually became illuminated. I came to understand that my very being and essence was quite valuable – to myself as well as to others. The growing awareness provided me with deep satisfaction and great sense of happiness. 

Not too long ago, I’d attended an intimate seminar. Delivered by an industry pro, this training was rather pricey but would ultimately improve my digital skills. Before we began, I had opportunity to meet my fellow classmates and inquire into their respective interests and businesses.

In typical fashion, my interest turned to innovation and I offered up a few creative ideas. Conversation continued during our breaks that day and I was inspired to share more: contacts, resources and suggestions that might add to others’ marketing and branding models.

By the end of the afternoon one of the attendees remarked, “I got more out of meeting you today than I did from attending this expensive seminar. You’re a font of creative wealth!”

I laughed at the comment but knew there was truth to the statement: I AM a font of creative wealth. And I love knowing that it’s in me, of me, with me and part of me.

You don’t need to leave behind a paycheck as I did in order to find your own personal wealth.

Each of us has the capacity to access our inner treasure. It’s merely awaiting our discovery!

Be willing to open yourself to discover the uniqueness of your being that is of enormous value. You can accomplish this in your own personal fashion, along a path that feels authentic to you. Like discovering long-hidden and untapped natural resources, you possess a treasure waiting to be brought to light. Your wealth is found through a variety of means, circumstances and opportunities. In time, you will find all kinds of talents and abilities that will brighten and enrich your life — and the lives of others. 

Once disclosed, your personal worth will give you a key to happiness that no job, circumstance or person can ever claim. It will also bring you an irrepressible joy.

Only you can come to the awareness of Truth: You are your own motherlode – standing in the flesh!