From Wikipedia:
The term commodity is specifically used to describe a class of goods for which there is demand, but which is supplied without qualitative differentiation across a market.
For example, on the market we buy and trade wheat without considering the quality of the wheat. There is no consideration of the soil in which it was grown, what pesticides were used, or if it’s genetically modified. It’s just wheat, and we treat it as all the same.
Unfortunately, in the workplace, we are often treated this same way. We are treated like a commodity. We are moved around from task to task or project to project without any regard to our abilities, strengths, or desires. We are told that if we don’t do our job well, they’ll just find someone else to replace us. We are treated as just a unit of production. Instead of people, we become objects that are manipulated to produce.
I think this is really unfortunate, because it doesn’t have to be this way. Our employers would get a whole lot more out of us if they drew on our strengths and passions, and we would be much happier at work. If you ever find a job where they treat you as a unique individual, hang on to that job because this isn’t common in my experience.
The really sad thing is that we can begin to believe what we are being told: we aren’t anything special, we are easily replaceable, and we aren’t that valuable. So, when we’re told that we have a calling, we get this blank expression. We think, “I have a what? How can I have a calling when I’m a replaceable unit of production?”
Even when we start to believe that we have something to offer, we struggle. Internally we are at war with ourself. “I’m unique. No I’m not. I don’t have anything special to offer. Yes I do!” Sometimes this sneaks up on us. We set out to start something new, and get stuck. We want to start it, but subconsciously, we believe that it’s not worthwhile and we aren’t worthy of our calling. Deep down we are still believing lies about us.
I want you to know deep in your heart, you are not a commodity. There is no one else just like you. You have strengths, experiences, and passions that are like no one else’s. If you shrink back and hide yourself from the world, the world will miss out. We are waiting for you to show up and amaze us with your unique gifts. There is place for you in the world that only you can fill, and if you don’t show up, the rest of us are diminished.
Speak the following out loud, “I am a valuable, unique, strong person.” Repeat this until you believe it. Really. Say this everyday to counter the lies you are told.
What about you? Normally we think it’s not okay, but I’m giving you permission to brag here. Tell us what is amazing about you?
