The Extraordinary Value of the Ordinary - An Lesson in Perspective and Humanity

Introduction

On May 3, 2022, Ambassador Maryben Omollo—an internationally renowned mental health and leadership coach, 17-time award-winning speaker, and founder of the Maryben Foundation—shared a profound reflection on the underestimated power of the “ordinary.” With a global reach of over 50 million and a mission to build resilient and inclusive workplaces across Africa, Omollo continues to use her voice to challenge societal norms and elevate the dignity of every human being. In this particular message, she used a simple yet powerful analogy—comparing champagne and water—to illustrate how society often overlooks the essential in favour of the extravagant. Her insight is a call to re-evaluate how we define value, and more importantly, how we treat people who are considered “ordinary.”

The Analogy: Champagne vs. Water

Omollo begins with a striking comparison:

“Champagne is very expensive, but it doesn’t quench thirst like ‘ordinary’ water.”

This statement immediately challenges the assumption that cost equals value. Champagne, often associated with luxury, celebration, and status, is prized for its exclusivity. Yet, in the most basic human sense—quenching thirst—it fails to deliver what water, a far more accessible and “ordinary” substance, provides effortlessly. Water, though common and often taken for granted, is essential to life. Without it, survival is impossible. It is not glamorous, but it is vital. This analogy sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how society assigns worth—not just to objects, but to people.

The Misjudgment of the “Ordinary”

Omollo’s message goes beyond beverages. She uses the metaphor to highlight a broader societal issue: the tendency to undervalue people who are perceived as “ordinary.” These are the individuals who may not hold prestigious titles, wear designer clothes, or command large audiences—but who, in their quiet, consistent ways, keep families, communities, and organisations functioning.

“That a thing is ‘ordinary’ does not mean it’s not valuable.”

This statement is a direct challenge to the culture of elitism and superficial success. It reminds us that true value often lies beneath the surface, in the people and things we overlook.

The Essential Role of the “Common” Person

Omollo emphasises that just like water, the so-called “common” person is indispensable. They may not be celebrated in headlines or awarded in ceremonies, but they are the backbone of society. From caregivers and janitors to clerks and drivers, these individuals perform roles that are essential to the functioning of everyday life.

“Learn to value the people you or society consider ‘ordinary.’ They can save your life when you least expect it.”

This is not just a metaphor—it is a reality. In moments of crisis, it is often the nurse, the teacher, the neighbour, or the friend who steps in. Their contributions may not be glamorous, but they are deeply impactful.

A Call for Human Dignity

Omollo’s message is ultimately a call to restore dignity to every human being, regardless of their social or economic status. She urges us to value the “common” person the way we value air—something we may not see or praise, but without which we cannot live. This perspective is especially important in leadership, where the temptation to prioritise status over substance can lead to toxic cultures and inequitable systems. True leadership, Omollo suggests, is about recognising and honouring the humanity in everyone.

Lessons for Business and Society

In the context of business and organisational culture, Omollo’s message has profound implications. Companies often focus on high-profile roles and overlook the contributions of support staff. Yet, it is the collective effort of every team member that drives success.

Valuing the “ordinary” means:

1. Creating inclusive workplaces where every voice matters.
2. Recognising and rewarding contributions at all levels.
3. Practising humility and gratitude in leadership.
4. Building systems that prioritise people over prestige.

This mindset not only fosters a healthier work environment—it also leads to more sustainable and ethical success.

The Mental Health Connection

As a mental health advocate, Omollo’s message also touches on the psychological impact of being undervalued. When people are consistently overlooked or dismissed, it affects their self-esteem, motivation, and overall well-being. By shifting our perspective and affirming the worth of every individual, we contribute to a culture of mental wellness. We create spaces where people feel seen, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Reflection

Ambassador Maryben Omollo’s message on May 3, 2022, is a powerful reminder that value is not always visible, and importance is not always loud. In a world obsessed with status and spectacle, her words call us back to the basics—to the quiet strength of water, to the dignity of the “ordinary,” and to the humanity that connects us all. Her analogy of champagne and water is more than clever—it is transformative. It invites us to re-examine our assumptions, to look beyond appearances, and to honour the essential contributions of those who are often unseen.

In doing so, we not only uplift others—we elevate ourselves.

Lesson to Learn

Never underestimate the value of what appears ordinary. Whether it’s a glass of water or a person without a title, their worth may be greater than you realise. True success lies not in celebrating the extravagant, but in honouring the essential. Value people not for their status, but for their humanity. Because sometimes, the most “ordinary” among us are the ones who hold everything together.