This blog explores a simple but powerful question: What is your added value? Inspired by a lesson from Marnie Schneider’s mother, it challenges readers to think beyond titles, recognition, and financial success and instead focus on the impact they have on others. Through stories, reflections, and practical examples, Marnie examines how curiosity, kindness, reliability, and service contribute to our personal “bottom line.” The blog is a reminder that true relevance comes from making people, teams, and communities better—and that the greatest value we create is often the value that cannot be measured.

One of the most helpful things I ever learned about relationships came from a philosopher who lived more than 2,000 years ago.

His name was Aristotle.

And while he didn’t have Instagram, LinkedIn, text messages, group chats, reality television, or social media followers, he understood something many of us still struggle with today:

Not all friendships are meant to serve the same purpose.

The key is understanding the role each one plays.