10 Priceless Possessions We’re Born with but Rarely Value
- Cary Lam
- Sep 1, 2025
- 4 min read

In our pursuit of material success, we often overlook the priceless treasures we already carry within ourselves. From the moment we are born, we come into this world with a set of gifts that no amount of wealth can truly buy. They are the foundations of our lives, shaping how we grow, how we love, and how we find meaning. Sadly, because these possessions aren’t wrapped in gold or displayed in bank accounts, we don’t always recognise their worth.
Here are ten of the most valuable possessions every human being is born with — treasures that deserve more appreciation than we often give them.
1. Life Itself
The greatest gift of all is simply being alive. Every breath we take is proof of a miracle — our existence. Yet, we easily forget this gift when caught in the struggles of daily life. We complain about our jobs, our responsibilities, or our lack of certain luxuries, without realising that life itself is the foundation for every other opportunity. Without life, nothing else is possible.
2. Health
Most people only realise the value of health once they lose it. From the time we’re born, we are given a body designed to sustain us, protect us, and allow us to experience the world. Our ability to walk, run, play, and embrace loved ones is nothing short of remarkable. However, we often abuse this gift with poor habits and neglect. Valuing health means nourishing it with good food, exercise, rest, and care.
3. Time
We all enter the world with time, though none of us knows how much we have. Time is both abundant and limited; it is the currency of our lives. Unlike money, we cannot earn back time once it’s spent. Every day we are gifted with 24 hours — hours we can invest in growth, love, creativity, or service. Too often, though, we waste it on regret for the past or anxiety about the future.
4. Mind
The human mind is one of the most extraordinary possessions we are born with. It gives us imagination, memory, problem-solving, and the ability to learn. From childhood curiosity to adult innovation, our minds can shape entire worlds. Sadly, we sometimes undervalue this gift by filling it with negativity or letting it stagnate. Nurturing our minds through learning and mindfulness is one of the best ways to honour this possession.
5. Emotions
Emotions are not weaknesses; they are treasures. They allow us to feel joy, sadness, love, empathy, and even pain — all of which deepen our human experience. A life without emotions would be hollow, no matter how successful we appeared on the outside. When we suppress or undervalue our emotions, we rob ourselves of the richness they bring to our lives.
6. Free Will
From the earliest moments, humans possess choice — the ability to decide, to act, and to shape our own journeys. Even when circumstances are difficult, the power to choose our response remains. Free will is what allows us to create our destinies, build relationships, and pursue dreams. Yet, many forget this freedom and allow life to be dictated entirely by external pressures.
7. Creativity
Every child is born with creativity. Whether it’s in drawing, singing, storytelling, or simply imagining, creativity is a natural gift. As we grow older, society often suppresses this spark in favour of practicality. But creativity is a possession that not only enriches our lives but also solves problems, brings beauty into the world, and allows us to express our inner selves.
8. Relationships
From the moment we enter this world, we are connected — first to our mothers, then to families, and eventually to friends, mentors, and communities. The capacity to bond and form relationships is an inborn treasure. Love, connection, and companionship bring meaning far beyond wealth or status. Sadly, many people only recognise the value of relationships when they lose them.
9. Spirituality
Regardless of religious belief, every person is born with a sense of wonder, awe, and longing for connection with something greater than themselves. This spirituality — whether expressed through faith, nature, or personal values — helps guide us and gives life deeper meaning. Unfortunately, in the rush of modern life, this inner compass often goes unnoticed.
10. Potential
Finally, one of the most powerful possessions we are born with is potential. Each of us arrives in the world with endless possibilities. Within us are talents, skills, and dreams waiting to be discovered. Potential is what drives innovation, inspires art, and fuels personal growth. Too often, we underestimate what we are capable of, forgetting that the seeds of greatness were planted in us from the beginning.
Why We Don’t Value These Possessions Enough
The problem lies in familiarity. Because these gifts are given freely at birth, we assume they will always be there. Unlike material possessions, they don’t come with price tags, so we overlook their worth. It’s only when we lose them — when our health fails, time runs short, or relationships break down — that we realise just how priceless they are.
How to Start Valuing Them Today
1. Practice gratitude daily. Remind yourself of the simple yet profound gifts you carry.
2. Take care of your body and mind. Small acts of self-care go a long way.
3. Use your time wisely. Prioritise what truly matters.
4. Nurture relationships. Invest in people, not just possessions.
5. Honour your potential. Keep learning, growing, and creating.
My Final Thoughts
The next time you find yourself yearning for more — more wealth, more recognition, more possessions — pause and reflect on what you already have. The most valuable treasures of life are not found in shops or banks but within us from the very beginning. Life, health, time, mind, emotions, free will, creativity, relationships, spirituality, and potential are gifts beyond measure.
Recognising and cherishing these possessions is the first step to living a richer, more meaningful life.
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