This story has been widely shared online as a motivational tale about the perception of value. I’ve seen variations of it in many places, but its exact origin is unclear. It’s typically presented as an allegory or parable rather than being attributed to a specific author or source. It’s a good reminder every time I read it, so I thought I’d post it here.
A father said to his son, “You graduated with honors. Here is a Volkswagen Beetle that I bought many years ago. It is over 50 years old, but before I give it to you, take it to a dealership downtown and ask how much they are offering you.”
The son went to the dealership, came back to his father and said, “They offered me $1,000 because it looks very used.”
The father said, “Take it to a pawn shop.”
The son went to the pawn shop, came back and said, “They only offered me $100 because they say it’s too old.”
Finally, the father asked his son to take the car to a classic car club and show it there.
The son took the car to the club, came back and said, “Some people at the club offered me $100,000! That’s because it’s a very rare car and sought after among the members.”
The father said to his son, “I wanted you to understand that the right place appreciates you in the right way. If they don’t value you, don’t be angry, it just means you’re in the wrong place. Those who know your value are the ones who truly appreciate you. Never stay in a place where they don’t recognize your value!”
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In this classic story of a father and son, we learn an important lesson about value. The father guides his son through a series of experiences where different people offer wildly different values for the same car. It’s not until the son presents the car to the right audience—a classic car club—that its true value is appreciated.
The moral of the story is that the real worth of something (or someone) depends on the context and the environment. The lesson of this parable is to know your value. If you feel like you’re not being valued, go somewhere that you are.
In the workplace, for example, your value might not be recognized or appreciated if you are not in the right setting. Some organizations or managers may overlook your capabilities, while others will see your true potential and give you opportunities to grow and thrive.
As an employee, it’s important to seek out environments that appreciate your unique skills and allow you to flourish. If you find yourself in a place where your contributions aren’t valued, it might simply mean you’re in the wrong place—not that you lack value!
