When my book, Twice Over a Man, was released in August, I faced a challenge I hadn’t anticipated: How do I promote it while managing an already packed schedule?

It didn’t take long to realize something. I was already being invited to speak regularly, at conferences, corporate events, and community gatherings. Sharing the book’s message naturally aligned with the purpose of these talks.

So, I decided to make a small adjustment. Anytime an organization invited me to speak, I kindly requested they purchase copies of the book for their audience as part of the engagement. After all, if I’m being asked to share my journey, one that deeply informs the book, why not ensure the audience leaves with something tangible to reinforce the message?

But here’s where it got interesting. At least once, a large organization rescinded its invitation when I made this simple request.

Let me be clear, it wasn’t about the money from book sales. It was about recognizing the value of my time and message. That experience reminded me of an important realization:

People are often comfortable with you giving your time, until you attach value to it.

Why Valuing Your Time is Essential

I’ve seen this play out in different areas of life, not just speaking engagements. The moment you set a boundary or attach a cost, the perception shifts. What was once appealing suddenly feels less so.

Here’s the truth: If you don’t value your time, no one else will.

Every moment you spend in one place is time you could have invested elsewhere, in relationships, projects, or opportunities that create mutual benefit and growth. Recognizing this truth and standing by it is essential if you want to build a life aligned with your purpose and goals.

Choose Opportunities That Honor Your Worth

For anyone struggling to see their own worth, let me ask you: What is the opportunity cost of saying yes to something that doesn’t honor your value?

This question has changed how I approach decisions. When you recognize your worth, it becomes easier to say no to opportunities that drain you and yes to ones that align with your values and vision.

You are worthy of environments that recognize and respect what you bring to the table. Sometimes, saying no to one opportunity creates room for something greater.

Stand by Your Value

This is not just about time, it’s about self-respect. Setting boundaries is not selfish; it’s necessary for growth. When you know your worth and stand by it, you don’t just set expectations for others, you reinforce them for yourself.

Let me leave you with this thought: Every time you say no to something that doesn’t honor your value, you’re saying yes to yourself and the things that matter most.

If this resonates with you, let me know. How are you learning to stand by your value? Share your journey, your experience might inspire someone else to do the same.

#KnowYourWorth #TimeIsValue #LeadershipJourney #MutualGrowth #StandByYourValue