Are You Discounting Your Real Value?

Would you ever sell one of your prized possessions for a fraction of its value? Of course not. So why would anyone or any organization choose to function at half their capability? Isn’t that essentially the same thing? If you have the potential to achieve greatness, why would you settle for anything less? Are you underestimating your real worth?

Despite its apparent logic, this scenario occurs every day. It’s the star athlete who skips practice, the promising young employee who’s convinced they know it all, or the leader who tolerates mediocrity. The common thread is settling for good when they have the potential to be great. It’s easy to see why they’re frustrated when others pass them in the fast lane, despite their potential to lead the pack.

Are You Selling Yourself Short?

Why do people settle for satisfactory when they’re capable of achieving the extraordinary?

Poor attitude. Some people won’t do more than the bare minimum. Their mantra? “It’s not my job.”

Lack of feedback. Some folks think that if they don’t know their faults, they don’t have any. In reality, don’t fear what you may learn about yourself, worry about what you don’t.

Inadequate training. Some people struggle to grasp the concept of excellence.

Lazy. Some folks opt for the easy way instead of doing things the right way.

Lack of motivation. Some people believe if no one is looking over their shoulder, there’s no reason to make the effort.

Poor leadership. Some folks set the bar so low you can trip over it.

Bad influence. Some people, surrounded by others with a lackadaisical work ethic, gradually adopt this behavior as the norm.

Lack of accountability. Some leaders avoid assigning individual responsibility, leaving no one accountable when things go awry.

Play it safe. Some folks spend more time covering their behinds than getting the job done.

Resist change. Some people cling to the notion of “we’ve always done it this way” instead of exploring a better way.

Poor reward system. Some folks are paid merely for showing up to work, regardless of their performance. People stop trying when there’s no benefit for being exceptional and no consequence for being mediocre.

Adopt an entitled attitude. Some people fail to make the effort because they expect rewards rather than earn them.

Lose sight of the big picture. Some folks measure success by the number of tasks they complete rather than whether they’re doing them right.

Victim mentality. Some people convince themselves the cards are stacked against them, so they stop trying to affect the outcome.

Boast an inflated ego. Some folks think they know it all so there’s nothing more for them to learn.

You’re Worth More

If you approach things half-heartedly, it might seem easier or demand less effort, but what do you truly gain? The reality is, you’re shortchanging yourself because your real potential far exceeds the effort that you’re making. It doesn’t matter how capable you are if you’re not fully committed.

Always give 110%. It’s the extra 10% that everyone remembers.

When you undertake something, do you give it your all? That means striving for improvement every single day. You can achieve this by investing in your personal development, welcoming feedback, and giving everything your best shot. As the saying goes, “It’s not about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday.”

Don’t wait for others to tell you to raise your game or that they expect more from you. This isn’t about pleasing others; it’s about fulfilling your own potential.

By setting high standards, tackling tough challenges, and continuously striving for excellence, you’ll strengthen your character, advance your career, and enhance your self-worth. Furthermore, when you consistently give everything your best effort, it becomes second nature, improving everything you do. Your potential is like a rough diamond, brimming with immense value. With diligent effort, it can be transformed into a priceless gem. However, this transformation can only occur with your commitment. Are you embracing your real potential?

Check out Frank’s new book, BECOME: Unleash the Power of Moral Character and Be Proud of the Life You Choose