Most people don’t waste time, money, or opportunities on purpose.

They usually just don’t realize how valuable they are.

We naturally think impact comes from big plans and important goals. And when we can’t see progress towards the big “important” things in life, we feel like we’re wasting time.

But impact usually comes the unnoticed moments, like a distracted look, a harsh word, or a missed chance to engage, that shape the people closest to us.

And we mismanage these moments because we’ve undervalued simplicity.

We overestimate the weight of our intentions and underestimate the power of our presence.

If you want to steward time, relationships, or money better, remember:

You only steward what you cherish, and you only cherish what you see as valuable.

So here are three of the most valuable things you have that get overlooked:

1. Insecurities. Insecurities provide insight. They show what you care about and where you long to grow. When you hide insecurities, they turn into shame. When you expose and share them, they become fertile ground for vulnerability. And vulnerability is the doorway to trust.

2. Frustration. Frustration points to what matters and where unity is needed. It’s not the enemy. It’s a signpost. The goal isn’t to eliminate or avoid frustration, but to let it inform the adjustments needed for unity to happen. Avoid it, and you’ll drift. Face it, and you’ll grow in a way very few are willing to.

3. Presence. The present is the only place you can actually affect change. Everything else – regret from the past and dreams for the future – is an illusion. Who you want to become isn’t found in tomorrow. It’s in the next word, the next moment, the next small step you choose right now.

You don’t need more time.

You just need to value the time you already have.

And when you start to cherish it, you’ll steward it well.