A Diamond Won’t Shine At the Bottom of a Cave

I saw this quote the other day as I was scrolling and loved it:
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“A diamond won’t shine at the bottom of a cave.”

Along with it was a story about an old car that was valued differently by other different sets of people. If the car was to be pawned, it was practically worthless because it was old and rusted, but if the car were taken to a vintage car rally, it would be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars because they could see and appreciate its true value.

I sent that post to someone I know who is in a role where they work tirelessly and passionately but find themselves unappreciated. I know that in another role or company, they would be seen as the diamond they most brilliantly are.​

Sometimes we are that diamond and find ourselves in an environment where no-one sees our worth.

It doesn’t mean we are worthless. It’s not us, it’s the environment.
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So next time you are doubting yourself, ask yourself...

Is it me or my environment?

Is it me or the company I work at?

What are my values, what are theirs and are they aligned?

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If you find a big difference, ask yourself...

What would be an environment in which I would shine?

And what can I do to put myself in that environment?

Pick up that diamond at the bottom of the cave and bring it to the light where it can dazzle all who see it with its brilliance.

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​In the words of Rihanna, ‘shine bright like a diamond!’
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And don't forget, always, Be fearlessly you.

Tracy