We have access to the mind of the infinite in which there are no limitations and all things are possible. Our limiting beliefs cause us to stop dreaming and accept our past and present as all there is to life. By awakening our roar and shifting our sense of self, we will move through the process of building a dream. Mary Morrissey
Values are core beliefs or principles that are important to you as you pursue your BIG vision.
A well defined vision consists of two parts: a core ideology and envisioned future (Collins & Porras, 1996). Core ideology encompasses authentic emotion. As Dr. John Townsend teaches, “It’s what grabs your heart.” This aspect could be considered a person's (or organization’s) most fundamental reason for existence.
It is unchanging and defines the “why we exist"(core values) and the “what we stand for.” (purpose statement). It’s an honest look on the inside.
Let's start with your ‘why’.
Values…
Are your foundation - they imbue your work and your life with meaning.
Act as your North Star, guiding prioritization of your limited time and energy.
Help you connect with people, teams, and organizations in authentic ways.
Values drive how you show up as a leader.
They make you authentically you.
Therefore, awareness and articulation of your personal values are the foundation of leadership.
“Living into our values means that we do more than profess our values, we practice them" Brené Brown
Simon Sinek, a researcher and author, created this framework below. It’s from his TED talk and book “Start With Why”.
● When we think about “vision” or “personal brand” or “authenticity”, it may be helpful framing - what is our “why”?
● The model is intended to show that many people, when asked about their leadership style or about their work in general, start at the outside of the circle - they start at “the what”. Then they might talk about the “how”. They rarely get to the center, the “why”.
● Simon Sinek’s model suggests we start with “the why”, the center of the circle, and only then work to the outer rings of the circle.
Let's Try It:
Heres how to use the attached tool to identify your three to five core values.
1. Review the values. Consider each one by one.
2. Circle the values that resonate with you creating a short list.
3. If the word for your value is missing, create a unique value in the blank space.
Most people choose 10-15 values during the first review of the list.
4. Choose your top three to five values by reviewing your short list. Cross out those that no longer resonate.
5. Rank the final three values in priority order.
If you are torn between values, you can consolidate by identifying values with similar meanings to you (for example community and connection) or finding values expressed through another value (for example self-expression through creativity).
Reflect:
Which values are non-negotiable?
Which values must I honor to feel like my best self?
Was identifying your values easy? Difficult? Why do you think that is?
Any surprises in your selections (or what you did not select)?
I thought I valued ____, but in full honesty I value _____.
I used to value ____, but now I find immense value in ____.
Did you confront any feelings of “should” - “I should pick this”?
Consider timing - are you currently sacrificing one value in service of another value?
Do any values contradict each other?
Integrate:
Write down your top core values; keep them somewhere visible.
Think of 1 single small thing you can do better/more of/less of to increase consistency with one of your values.
Something "extra" for reflection from Susan David around happiness and values:
"Paradoxically, the best way to move along the path to happiness is to forget about the path altogether. Instead of asking yourself what will make you happy, ask yourself what you value. Our emotions are signposts that point us toward the things we care about, so it is crucial that we hear what they have to say. That knot in your stomach when a client’s demands force you to cancel dinner plans with your spouse? It was likely telling you that you value intimate relationships. The boredom you feel when each workday has the same shape as the one before? It might be letting you know that you value curiosity or creativity, and that you’re not spending enough time nurturing those values."
If you’re feeling down, it can be helpful to reframe the questions you ask yourself. Instead of “When will I finally be happy?,” ask “How can I live in alignment with my values?” Let those values be your compass and a happier, more fulfilling life will be a beautiful byproduct of that journey.
Want to chat more about your values and leadership brand and living in alignment -- feel free to schedule a free consultation today. I want to hear your story!