By Garfield Joseph, MBA
Introduction: More Than Money
This article is written especially for young people and anyone who has ever struggled with low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy.
In today’s world, “net worth” is often reduced to numbers—bank accounts, property, and possessions. But there’s a deeper kind of worth that matters far more: your self-worth. This is the internal sense of your own significance, dignity, and potential. It’s not about what you own, but about who you are.
Self-Worth vs. External Validation
There’s a critical difference between the value others place on you and the value you place on yourself. The former is shaped by stereotypes, biases, and limited perspectives. The latter is rooted in self-awareness, purpose, and belief in your intrinsic worth.
When you allow others to define your value, you risk living a life far below your potential. But when you define your own worth, you unlock the power to rise above limitations and shape your destiny.
The Power of Perception: Two Students, Two Outcomes
Consider the story of a young student who was told by a teacher, “You’ll never amount to anything.” Tragically, the student believed it. That message became a self-fulfilling prophecy, and the student lived a life far below their potential.
Now contrast that with another student who heard the same words but refused to accept them. Instead, they said, “I know who I am. I know what I’m capable of.” That student went on to succeed—not because others believed in them, but because they believed in themselves.
The difference lies in self-worth—the belief that you are worth more than what others say.
The Challenge of Circumstance
Many people, especially people of colour, grow up in environments where their value is constantly questioned. Poverty, systemic inequality, and discrimination send subtle and overt messages that say, “You’re not enough.”
Yet history is filled with individuals who overcame these odds. From Oprah Winfrey, who rose from poverty and trauma to become a media mogul, to Nelson Mandela, who endured 27 years in prison and emerged to lead a nation—these stories remind us that external circumstances do not define self worth.
Closer to home, we see young men and women in Antigua and Barbuda who rise above economic hardship, family instability, or societal doubt to become business owners, scholars, and community leaders. Their stories prove that your value is not determined by your starting point, but by your belief in your destination.
A Different Mindset: You Are Wonderfully Made
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said:
“We are not defined by the colour of our skin but by the content of our character.”
This quote is a powerful reminder that your true worth lies in your values, your integrity, and your purpose—not in how others label you.
Even more profoundly, the Bible declares in Psalm 139:14:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well.”
You were created with intention, beauty, and purpose. You are not an accident. You are not a mistake. You are a masterpiece.
Jesus also spoke of the pearl of great price in Matthew 13:45–46:
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
In this parable, the pearl symbolizes something of immense value. That pearl represents you. God sees you as worth everything. If He placed such high value on you, why should you let anyone discount it?
Call to Action: Reclaim Your Worth
So, here’s the challenge: Start placing high value on yourself. Not because you’re perfect, but because you’re purposeful. Not because you’ve never failed, but because you’re still growing. With all your faults and weaknesses, you are still of high value.
Let this be your new mindset:
- I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
- I am the pearl of great price.
- I am not defined by others, but by my character and my Creator.
Therefore, don’t wait for the world to validate you. Validate yourself. Speak life over your future. Surround yourself with people who see your worth. And most importantly, believe it for yourself. For your value is not up for debate. It is eternal, unshakable, and priceless.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
