It’s an interesting question. I’m guessing if I asked you how much you think you are worth you’d probably look at how much you made, divide it by the number of hours you worked and whalla … there’s your answer.

If we use this method then this is only a measure of the value of the choices you made, not the value of you as an individual.

Let me give you an example. I recently chose to paint the ceiling in my kitchen which is an activity that is probably worth about $50/hr for someone who is experienced in the field of painting. Now compare that to how much I can earn when I’m doing my highest value activity, which is coaching or leading a group workshop. That activity can be worth between $500 – $1000/hr. So if I make poor choices and do more lower value activities compared to where I can be then subsequently my end result is going to mean ‘I am worth less’ because I will actually be earning less.

Now let me be clear when I say ‘I’m worth less’, I’m talking in an economic sense. Please don’t think I’m sitting on the edge of the cliff wondering what I’ve done with my life.

So the question to ask yourself is … “If I spent 80% of my working hours doing the activities that have the highest $/hr value, what would I be worth (economically of course)”. And how far are you off that today?

The truth is most of us fall into patterns of behavior that become very predictable and unless we question them, they don’t change. If it is easier for us to do something ourselves vs having to think of alternatives that can get that item off our plate, inevitably we end up doing it ourselves. Usually to our detriment.

OK so what do you do about it.

#1 – get crystal clear on what you really want. What results are really really a MUST for you?

#2 - get clear on the most important activities that will lead to those results. Then look at these activities and decide which you are good at and you can provide the most value doing.

#3 – get everything else off your plate. Delegate, systematize, outsource or possibly eliminate if appropriate. If you can’t do this immediately then start with a few things and work toward the full list over time.

Once you are clear on what you want and know the steps to get there, it becomes A LOT easier to say no to things you would have previously spent your valuable time doing.

I know how to paint my kitchen ceiling, I know how to cut my grass, I know how to design spreadsheets, heck I can even analyze a database like a madman. That does not mean I should do it.

Get clear on what’s important and execute.