The Foundation of Success: Why Valuing People Changes Everything

Here's a truth that might surprise you—you must value people.

The colleagues at your workplace. Your family members. Your neighbors. Your classmates. Every single person you encounter matters.

Let me be direct: regardless of your industry or age, you're in the people business. Period.

Why should we value people? The answer is beautifully simple: people are valuable.

When you genuinely value someone, something remarkable happens. You naturally begin adding value to their lives. And when you add value to others, you make them more valuable. Who wouldn't want that? This creates what I call the Value Cycle—a continuous loop of mutual growth and appreciation.

Here's the core definition: We recognize the inherent worth of every individual and intentionally add value to their lives.

1.  Know Your Own Value First

You can't see value in others until you recognize it in yourself. This isn't about arrogance—it's about honest self-awareness.

Start by asking yourself: What are my unique strengths or gifts? These are your superpowers. Consider how your value contributes to your success, whether in your career or personal relationships.

Most importantly, avoid the comparison trap. You're uniquely made, one of a kind. Own that.

2.  Recognize the Value in Others

Appreciate the worth of every person you encounter. Yes, some people will challenge you more than others. I'll be honest—when I know I'm working with someone difficult at a live event, I mentally prepare by reminding myself: “I only have to work with this person for three days."

But here's what I've discovered: when you genuinely appreciate people and acknowledge their impact on your life, relationships transform. You relate better to each other—the dynamic shifts.

3.  Add Value to Others

Look for opportunities to positively impact the people around you.  It's easier than you think.

Small acts make a big difference:

• Use someone's name. I've never met anyone who doesn't appreciate hearing their own name.

• Practice small acts of kindness. What could you do today?

• Listen actively. This is the hardest part of communication. Put your phone down. Be fully present. Listen with intention.

• Follow the Golden Rule. Treat others the way you want to be treated. There's a reason this principle appears in virtually every major religion.

Remember this: "How I value people determines how I view people."

Always put people first. Sometimes that simply means offering encouragement. And here's a question worth pondering: how often do people really need encouragement?

I'll admit—this isn't always easy. But here's something crucial: don't let one bad experience with someone become a lifetime sentence.

I truly believe, with all my heart, that most people are genuinely good and mean well. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Lead with grace.

Because at the end of the day, valuing people isn't just good practice—it's the foundation of everything meaningful we do.