Values are a core set of guiding principles that reflect what is truly important to an individual and cannot be compromised for material gain. They serve as a compass to help make better decisions, particularly during uncertain times. When values are clear, you can assess alternatives and choose options that align with your principles, leading to a sense of purpose and confidence in decision-making.
Given the unprecedented impact of rapid change, it is not uncommon for your values to shift. Personal experiences may have reshaped your priorities, prompting you to reevaluate what matters most. Adapting to new circumstances and facing uncertainty often brings about a deeper understanding of your values and their significance.
Recognizing and understanding personal values is crucial for effective leadership. A leader’s values should align with those of their team and organization to foster a sense of belonging and purpose. When values are misaligned, conflicts may arise, causing frustration and dissatisfaction.
Identifying your personal values involves examining the relative importance of the things you hold dear. Consider the list of values below. Review the list; add any values that you don’t see listed that you consider important. Identify your top 10 values:
____ACHIEVEMENT (sense of accomplishment; setting goals and reaching them)
____ADVANCEMENT (moving forward in my career through promotions)
____ADVENTURE (work which frequently involves risk-taking or travel)
____AESTHETICS (involved in studying or appreciating the beauty of ideas, things, etc.)
____AUTONOMY (work independently, determine my work without a lot of direction from others)
____CARING (love, affection)
____CHALLENGE (stimulates full use of your potential)
____CHANGE & VARIETY (varied, frequently changing work responsibilities and/or work settings)
____COMPETITION (my abilities against those of others where there is a clear win/lose outcome)
____COOPERATION (opportunity to work as a team toward common goals)
____CREATIVITY (being imaginative, innovative, coming up with ideas)
____ECONOMIC SECURITY (having enough money)
____EXCITEMENT (experience a high degree of, or frequent excitement in your work)
____FAMILY HAPPINESS (being able to spend quality time and develop relationships with family)
____FRIENDSHIP (develop close personal relationships)
____HEALTH (physical and psychological well-being)
____HELP OTHERS (be involved in helping people in a direct way, individually or in a group)
____HELP SOCIETY (do something to contribute to improve the world)
____INNER HARMONY (being at peace with oneself)
____INTEGRITY (sincerity and honesty)
____INTELLECTUAL STATUS (be regarded as an expert in my field, seen as smart)
____KNOWLEDGE (understanding gained through study and experience)
____LEADERSHIP (influence over others, rather lead than follow)
____LEISURE (have time for hobbies, sports, activities, and interests)
____LOCATION (live somewhere that will fit my lifestyle/allows me to do the things I enjoy most)
____LOYALTY (steadfastness and allegiance)
____PLEASURE (enjoyment)
____POWER (authority, control)
____PRECISION (work in situations where there is little tolerance for error)
____RESPONSIBILITY (being accountable for results)
____RECOGNITION (getting acknowledged for your contribution)
____STABILITY (steady work routine and predictable duties, not likely to change)
____SPIRITUALITY (feel connected to a presence larger than myself)
____TIME FREEDOM (flexible work schedule, no specific work hours required)
____WEALTH (profit, gain, make a lot of money)
____WISDOM (accumulation of knowledge)
____Additions
*Modified from an exercise provided by and with the permission of The Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC)
During this process, it is helpful to reflect on the following questions:
- Which values are essential to guide all my decisions and behaviors at this moment in my life?
- Which values are important but currently carry less weight in my life?
- Are there any values I should remove from my list because they no longer reflect what I hold dear?
By prioritizing values and regularly reassessing them, you gain clarity on your core guiding principles and can make choices that align with what is purposeful for you.