Know Your Worth: In Friendships, Family, and the Workplace

There comes a moment when we need to pause and consider: Do they appreciate me as much as I appreciate them? Whether it involves a friend, a family member, or a job, recognizing your worth influences how others treat you and, more importantly, how you treat yourself. This was a challenge for me during high school, college, and the early stages of my career. Now, I feel like I have reached a good understanding of my value and what I deserve. I am not perfect, but I want to share my experience to help others who may be in a similar position to the one I once was.

💬 In Friendships

True friends pour into you, not just take from you. If you're always the one reaching out, planning, checking in, or supporting, but rarely receiving the same in return, it might be time to reevaluate. You deserve friendships that are mutual, not one-sided. People who celebrate your wins, sit with you in your lows, and show up when it matters — those are the ones worth keeping close.

Reminder: Being alone is better than being surrounded by people who make you feel lonely.

🏠 In Family

Family doesn’t get a free pass to mistreat you just because they’re “blood.”It’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to walk away from toxic cycles, harsh words, or manipulation — even if it comes from someone who shares your last name. You can love someone and still say, “This behavior is not okay.”

You are allowed to protect your peace, even from those closest to you.

💼 At Work

Your time, skills, and energy are valuable. If you’re being overworked, underpaid, or undervalued, speak up. Advocate for that raise. Take that PTO. Say no when it’s too much. The workplace should recognize your worth — but first, you have to.

Don’t shrink to fit a space that doesn’t see your full potential.

💖 In Yourself

Most importantly, know your worth to yourself. You are not defined by how others treat you, what job you have, how many likes you get, or how “productive” you are today. You are valuable because you are you.

Stop apologizing for taking up space. Start owning it.

Final Thoughts:

Knowing your worth isn’t arrogance, it’s awareness. It’s choosing not to settle for less than you deserve. It’s drawing the line between love and obligation, support and sacrifice. You don’t need to beg for a seat at someone else’s table when you were always meant to build your own.

Protect your peace. Guard your heart. And never forget: you are worthy. Always.