True Worth

“The longer I live the more I realize the importance of family and friends. We can replace the material things in our lives, but the priceless gift of family and friends can never be replaced. Cherish those who love you and love those who cherish you.” Tony Friday

On The Apprentice season opener there were 12 unemployed individuals who have been off work for over 3 years. One of the contestants lost his business and his marriage. During one of his on camera interviews he stated that due to his unemployment he felt less than a man because he was unable to take care of his family. He asked the question” What good am I?” That question made me extremely sad. Have you ever asked that question?

There are over 30 million Americans who have lost their jobs and are struggling to survive the seemingly never ending down turn in the market. Many have lost their homes, cars, savings, and more importantly their self worth. If you are in this situation you may ask yourself, how do I go on? Is there any hope for the future? Will I ever find work or is this my new reality?

I speak to unemployed individuals virtually every day and try to encourage them to stay focused and positive in their job search and to remind themselves of their past successes and accomplishments. I believe past success fuels future success. You say to yourself, I was successful before, I can be successful again.

There is so much opportunity in the marketplace. The opportunity to redefine what is possible and create for yourself a new reality. Don’t just sit back and let circumstances dictate the rest of your life. You have to seize control. But first it is important to choose the attitude that you are going to embrace for the day. Not just for one day, but every day. A positive attitude allows you to recognize opportunities. If you are in a negative state of mind they will pass you by.

If I had the opportunity to answer the question the contestant raised I would have said his worth is found in more than a job. It is about his life and having value to his children and those who really care about him. Our significance does not come from a job, but in whom God created us to be.

Remember you are significant and your life matters!