Value the Valleys
I took this photo of Lake Minnewanka two years ago. It prompts you to appreciate valleys and peaks, sparking a realization that there is more to life.
Recently, while having devotion with my family, we began discussing the wonderful things God has done in our lives, and we started counting our blessings. I got speaking about appreciating the low moments in our lives when the thoughts of “Value the Valley” emerged.
Let’s be honest, we try hard to avoid hardship, yet after the blink of an eye, we find ourselves in the “Valley” (hard times, struggles, waiting seasons). These moments are where people often lose hope, but they’re also where the most growth happens.
We admire the mountains, forgetting that the reason mountains are so high is because of the valleys that surround them. Same with our lives, “The valleys give meaning to the peaks”
The Beauty of the Valley
I look forward to revisiting Banff, Alberta, again because of the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Two years ago, I visited for the first time. We stopped at every moment to take in the enigmatic scene. It felt out of this world and was honestly so peaceful.
While amazed by the mountain heights, I was also surprised by the valleys, some of which had significant vegetation alongside them or were snowmelted.
Reflect on your life: the moment you thought it was all over, the times you nearly gave up, yet you are alive, perhaps in a better place, or on the path to a better one. That’s because “Peaks feel rewarding only because valleys exist.”.
The saying “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” isn’t just a mental gym metaphor, but indeed a reminder that there is more to life and that there is gain for every pain if we choose to sharpen our perspective, act, and be patient enough for the outcome.
“The valleys sharpen your perspective, deepen your gratitude, and make your victories sweeter. What makes the mountain beautiful is the fact that there are valleys.”
Why You Should Value the Valley
I. Valleys are not punishment, but preparation:
Every meal gets prepared, including the prepackaged ones. The process of getting prepared often feels like a punishment.
Simply waking as early as 5am, going to the gym, going to work, doing chores, and handling responsibilities. Still, we see the reward (discipline, healthy lifestyle, financial freedom, the smiles on our loved ones' faces, the growth we acquire personally and professionally), you feel fulfilled because you showed up.
Preparations come in various shapes and forms, but who you become through the process of preparation is the ultimate excitement of going through hardship.
“Sometimes, you have no idea what life is preparing you for; however, through reflection and taking ownership of your journey, you can use it to your advantage.”
II. Valleys build character, resilience, and clarity:
The valley exposes your weaknesses, blind spots, biases, flaws and even inner areas you haven’t explored.
These moments offer you an opportunity to shine a light and have those difficult conversations you haven’t had.
The more you embrace the valleys, the more comfortable it gets, the wiser you become.
“Valleys are not wasted time but shaping times. Who are you becoming?”
III. The valley is where you learn lessons the peak could never teach:
What better way to learn, at the bottom, in an enclosed place far from spectators? The valleys give you a VIP exclusive experience to learn, practice, fail and test all your assumptions, theories and perfect yourself.
If it weren’t for the valleys I went through, I would have never started blogging, considered starting a coaching career, polished my writing and speaking skills, alongside other outstanding commitments I am involved in.
The more I write on this, the more appreciative I am about my valleys and the upcoming ones I will be going through.
IV. Without the valley, the peak would lose its meaning
There will be times when you find yourself at the top and don’t feel the drive, passion, or excitement you once did when you were climbing to the top.
I often remind myself why I am at this particular peak and understand that it will inevitably turn into another valley because there is a nearby peak I need to climb.
How to Value the Valley
Shift your perspective: Instead of asking “Why me?” ask “What can I learn here?”
Slow down and listen: Valleys often bring silence that makes inner voices louder.
Document the journey: Journaling, prayer, or reflection to capture lessons.
Practice gratitude: Even small wins matter in the valley.
Questions I Ask Myself in the Valley
Who am I becoming through this?
What message is loudest in my head right now?
What habits, knowledge, or understanding am I building for the future?
How will this valley prepare me for my next peak?
Wrap up
Peaks will come, but the valley is where identity and purpose are forged. Dust yourself up and look up. Dream again, live again, and enjoy the process. Journal your way through the journey. One day, you will look back and see the beautiful terrain you navigated through.
It makes sense that people who often make great leaders, friends, companions, and partners are those who have ventured through those paths. They know what it feels like; they understand what it takes, and they celebrate every effort.
Chim up, don’t rush your way out of the valley—value it, because it’s preparing you for your next mountain.
