Dear Reader:

Value, value, value. The word is thrown around so much, it's become a dime a dozen in our lexicon. But what does value really mean? Why does every guru tell us to give value and every philosopher tell us to have values? Are they the same thing? Or are they facets of the same shiny coin?

Defining Value

When I find myself stuck on concepts like this, I usually turn to the basics for clarity - and often, that means thumbing through a dictionary. In its simplest terms, value represents worth. But what determines this worth? Utility. If something holds value for you, it signifies its usefulness to you in one way or another.

Consider money: it's valuable because you can exchange it for goods and services. Relationships carry value because they provide emotional support, camaraderie, or even professional opportunities. Similarly, sound advice holds value because, if heeded, it can steer us towards a favorable outcome.

Value vs Values

Though they sound similar, there's a subtle distinction between the two. While value speaks to utility or usefulness, values refer to our moral compass, the standards and principles we set for ourselves. These are the judgments of what we consider paramount in life. And just like value, our values too carry worth because they act as our North Star, guiding us through the maze of life's decisions.

Think about it:

• Honesty becomes an invaluable trait when we're choosing who to trust.

• Integrity is like a lighthouse, always ensuring we steer clear of stormy waters.

• Loyalty acts as a security blanket, assuring us that we're not alone, even when the chips are down.

The need to be Valuable

There's inherent merit in being valuable. It speaks to one's usefulness, their worth. But to whom? Well, isn't the answer all-encompassing? To oneself, to close friends and family, to colleagues, and essentially to the larger world. When you're valuable, you're contributing positively, you're making a difference, and isn't that the essence of a life well-lived?

What do I value?

Here's a peek into some values that are important to me:

• Equanimity: Keeping a balanced mind, especially in difficult situations.

• Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

• Discipline: Staying consistent, no matter how tough the journey gets.

• Self-reliance: Trusting in my abilities and judgment.

• Knowledge: The thirst to learn, to understand, and to grow.

In essence, whether we talk about value or values, it all boils down to what makes our lives meaningful. They're the threads that weave the fabric of our existence, shaping our actions, our choices, and ultimately, our legacy.

To finding real value, guided by values...

Deo volente.