Knowing Your Worth: The Science and Soul Community

We live in a culture that tries to tell us that our self-worth is tied to output and achievement. Promotions and performance reviews are designed to convince us that if we aren't constantly producing, we fall behind.

But people don't earn worth through promotions. Our worth is revealed through connection.

Connection shows up in science, in data, and in what people say kept them going in their hardest moments. Connection is purpose in motion. It is generosity turning into trust. It is people choosing people - not performance.

When everyone shows up with their individual talents, strengths, and resources and gives a little, whether it's time, money, or kindness, entire communities grow stronger. The same is true for personal value. When we show up for one another, we are reminded of our own worth.

From Performance to Participation

Think about how you feel about your own value when . . . someone notices your effort and names it . . . a mentor reflects your strengths back to you . . . a community invites you to lead, not just attend . . . 

When we are isolated, self esteem has less to hang on to. When we are part of something bigger, even in a small way, our worth is more obvious because we can see the difference we make together.

When our actions are connected to meaning, especially when someone else benefits, our sense of worth expands. That shift is not just emotional. It is biochemical. Purpose and connection literally change what is happening in our brains.

The Wallace Foundation’s recent youth arts research brings this to life in a powerful way. Culture centered, community based arts programs show that when young people have access to high quality creative experiences, they build confidence, social connection, and a stronger sense that they matter. 

Arts engagement helps youth: 

• Build creative skill and confidence
• Form trusting relationships with peers and adults
• Experience programs as “sanctuaries” for belonging
• See pathways for their future in and beyond the arts

Connection is measurable, and belonging is a developmental need.

Being Seen, Staying Connected

A recent Blackbaud Institute report shows that personalized follow up, real relationships, and authentic appreciation lead to higher retention. Students are more likely to stay in programs where adults remember their names. Volunteers return when they feel their time is respected and their ideas are welcome. Community members are more likely to attend again when they are greeted as neighbors, not numbers.

Psychology has been saying this for decades, and many of us know intuitively that acknowledgment is a basic human need. A thank you note. A genuine conversation. A meal left on a doorstep. A public recognition that credits the whole team, not just a single leader.

Community engagement is not simply outreach metrics or viral hashtags. It is about building circles of recognition, where people are reminded that they belong, and that belonging makes them brave enough to contribute again.

Knowing your worth is not something you arrive at alone. It's something you remember every time you are part of something bigger than yourself.

A Few Questions for You

As you think about your own life or your organization’s work, pause with questions like:

• How am I tying my worth to output instead of connection?
• Where have I felt most deeply that I matter, and what was happening around me?
• How could our programs or gatherings make it easier for people to participate, not just observe?
• Who can I acknowledge and appreciate this week?

At Rooted Sonshine, we know that worth grows in community. Whether you are a nonprofit, a community leader, or someone ready to make your corner of the world a little brighter, we can help you:

• Rediscover your value and unique voice in community
• Design programs and experiences that build real belonging
• Translate data and stories into clear, compelling narratives
• Strengthen the connections that keep people coming back

So join the bake. Attend the concert. Volunteer. Write the note. Check in on a friend. Show up for the project that feels small because it is important. YOU are important.