Once you know your worth, it’s time to align yourself with people who recognize your value.

Many people feel out of place or undervalued, not because they lack potential, but because they’re planted in the wrong environment. When you begin identifying and developing your gifts, you must also find a community that nurtures those gifts—people who are growing, building, and striving toward purpose like you.

There’s truth in the old saying:
“Birds of a feather flock together.”

When I was younger, my father would often tell me, “It matters who you associate with—doctors spend time with doctors, teachers with teachers, lawyers with lawyers.” He was right. The people you surround yourself with shape your mindset, your habits, and ultimately, your direction.

GROWTH IS A DAILY PRACTICE

In life, there’s no standing still—you’re either growing or decaying. Every day, you’re building or breaking down your future. That’s why even small actions matter.

Read a chapter in a book. Do five pushups. Learn one new thing. Those small acts compound over time, and soon you’ll find yourself achieving things you never thought possible—like running a marathon, leading a team, or starting a business.

Growth isn’t about massive leaps; it’s about consistent, intentional steps forward.

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP

Creating or joining a friend group with shared interests is essential. Iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17). But when you join a group, don’t just take—add value.

Your contribution doesn’t always have to be grand. Offer your insights, lend a helping hand, or even bring something small like snacks. (Everyone should be hungry to grow.)

When looking for a mentor, find someone who embodies the values and discipline you aspire to have. Be clear about your goals, communicate why you want to learn from them, and share what you’ve already done to move toward your vision. Mentorship thrives on clarity, respect, and mutual investment.

THE VALUE OF TIME

Time is the most expensive asset you have—it’s more valuable than money. When you’re young, it feels infinite; as you grow older, you realize how quickly it moves.

Invest your time wisely. Build yourself daily, learn something new, and treat each day as a sacred opportunity. When you spend time with others, treat those moments as valuable too—you never know when someone will share a piece of wisdom that could change your life.

And as you grow, remember that your words and actions may do the same for someone else.

VALUE IS INTRINSIC

Value isn’t just about what you have in your pocket—it’s about what’s inside you.
It’s your knowledge, your energy, your character, and your ability to help others.

Never underestimate what’s within you. You are a seed with infinite potential. But that potential only matters when you cultivate it—when you water it daily through growth, discipline, and service.

The tree doesn’t bear fruit for itself. It bears fruit for others. And when the fruit is good, the tree is known for its value.

That’s what it means to bring value to the table—to grow something worth sharing.

FINAL THOUGHT

Stay growing. Stay hungry. Keep producing fruit that benefits others.

“Every tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.” — Luke 6:44

Your value is shown not by what you say, but by what you produce—and how you use it to nourish others.

— Early Boykins III