Only Effort and Time

Why is a well-toned six pack impressive to many people?

It’s because everyone knows that it took a lot of effort, sustained over a long period of time.

Derek Sivers calls this mastery.

Mastery is the best goal because the rich can’t buy it, the impatient can’t rush it, the privileged can’t inherit it, and nobody can steal it.
You can only earn it through hard work.
Mastery is the ultimate status.

— How to Live by Derek Sivers

These things are generally held in high regard. I think this is why: you can’t buy them except with sustained effort over time.

a low handicap
physical fitness
publishing a book
completing a marathon
multi-decade friendships
becoming an Eagle Scout
50th wedding anniversaries
speaking multiple languages
winning top tier sports competitions
through-hiking the Appalachian Trail
using furniture that you built yourself
having PE, MD, or Esq. after your name
a great relationship with your adult kids
being the founder of a successful company
entertaining others with your performance art

What are some others?