Staying Grounded in Core Values
What truly guides your decisions and direction? Clarity starts with knowing what matters most. Use this guide to identify your core values, align your actions, and make decisions with confidence.
As leaders, we make countless decisions - some big, some small - but all shaping the direction of our lives, teams, and organizations. In the midst of complexity and change, what keeps us grounded? Core Values.
Core values are those irrefutable foundations from which we think, live, and relate. They are the riverbanks that keep the waters from flooding in our lives. They are “core,” not aspirational. When we violate a core value, our conscience woos us back. Knowing our core values allows us to live more true to who we are.
What values shape your behavior?
Your core values are already at work in your life.
Think of a brand that you trust and connect with. What draws you in? Now, consider a brand you avoid. What feels off?
When we engage with a brand - whether online or in person - we unconsciously decide whether or not we will return. It’s not just about the product or service - it’s the values shaping the experience.
Just like brands create culture through their values, your core values shape how you live, lead, and make decisions. The key is to name them, bringing clarity to what truly matters so you can align your actions with your convictions.
Start by making a long list
of values that resonate with you.
Begin narrowing it down, looking for those that feel the most essential and consistently shape your decisions and actions. These are the hills you would die on.
Define each one in your own words, articulating what it means to you.
Here’s a list of examples to inspire your thinking:
Accountability, Authenticity, Curiosity, Diversity, Generosity, Independence, Justice, Loyalty, Perseverance, Responsibility, Stewardship, Truth, Wholeheartedness
Ready to bring clarity to what drives you?
Let’s explore how LifePlan can help you define and live out your core values with confidence.
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