Consider the elements in your life that you are proud of. Relationships may be a fundamental part of your list but put those aside for this exercise. Take your time in creating your list and only move on once you believe that you really cannot think of anything else to add.

When completing your list, parse them between the categories at the top of this page, the best you can. This may be difficult but this has a purpose and an import in helping you understand more about yourself and your values.

Once you have completed this work through each list under each heading one item at a time. It’s best to use one page per category and, for each item, consider and list the following:

Longevity – is this something that will maintain, and if so, for how long

Work – how much effort must you put in to keep, care for or maintain this element. Do you put that work in?

Control – how much control do you really have over this element moving forward – is it something which is entirely within your control or is it at the mercy of other factors or other people?

The purpose of this exercise is to ensure that you’re putting the work in to the areas that are going to generate future value for you.

There is no right or wrong here. Honesty is important. If you love your car that you’re proud of, ensure it’s maintained and protected. If it’s your expertise in your field, are you continuing to invest in yourself to stay ahead. If it’s your reputation, do you work to enhance and protect it.

Remember, however, the more effort you put into a short-lived pleasure, or an element of which you are really proud but at the mercy of wind, may ultimately be fruitless.

Build your future value based on clarity and honesty.