Bye, bye 2018. Hello 2019. For everyone that is eagerly waiting to turn the page on the calendar, to welcome in 2019 and a “fresh start” to accomplishing some big goals and dreams, the next four posts are for us.
Over the next four weeks, we’ll talk about the intersections between our values, our beliefs, and our behaviors. It’s easy to think of these as separate from one another, but they are interconnected. For example, our values and our deeply held beliefs shape our behaviors. Our beliefs (and the beliefs and behaviors of those we spend the most time with – in person or virtually), influence our thoughts and behaviors. And, our behaviors reinforce or challenge our beliefs and values. Now you see why I call it an intersection.
Let’s Start with Values
When I work with clients to develop a business strategy or strategic plan, one of the first elements I seek to understand is their core values. The values, along with their personal or professional mission serve as the foundation that supports strategy and planning. You can have all the best-stated goals, objectives, strategies and tactics, but if they are misaligned with the core values, the disconnect will be obvious. I’m not talking about having tidy value statements that make you (or your organization) look and feel smart, accessible and accomplished to others. I’m talking about the values that you hold inviolate, that you use as a moral compass when faced with difficult decisions and choices.
“Your core values are the deeply held beliefs that authentically describe your soul.” – John C. Maxwell
Your values are unique to you; even if you and I pick the same value word, such as curious, we might each practice that value differently in life. Our values reflect who we are on a daily basis – whether we are at home or at work or at play. When we live in light of our values on a daily basis, we have more energy, feel more fulfilled, and lead from what’s important to us. In fact, life becomes easier when we know and act from our values, and our decisions and actions honor them. On the flip side, when we don’t align our thoughts and actions with our values, we feel less authentic and become demotivated about our daily lives.
It takes some time to think through your values. It isn’t complicated. It just requires that we each prioritize the “laundry list” of potential values.
I would argue that knowing your personal values before establishing core values for a new business or organization is essential. If you are entering an already established business or organization, knowing your own values will let you determine whether you are a “fit” with the culture and the degree to which you can make meaningful contributions.
So, where do you start?
Let’s pause right here. Nothing wrong with a bit of a cliffhanger, right? The second part of this article is set for release one week from today and will address your core values, discussing how to define and clarify them. There’s even an exercise to help inspire your business mind and help your thoughts flow freely as you drill down to the cornerstones of your values. Can’t wait to get started? There’s plenty of inspiration to be found on our website – www.SarahBoxx.com. In the meantime, ask yourself where do your values, beliefs, and behaviors intersect?
