“You have to maintain a culture of transformation and stay true to your values.”—Jeff Weiner
If one has considered his or her values and created a mission statement, there remains the challenge of remaining true to these. It is rarely for lack of desire that one might slip and fall short. Rather, it is the never-ending resistance by the cosmos that confronts us. If we are to be true to our values, we need to be diligent.
Daily, we must revisit our values and set our minds on living accordingly. As we go through our morning routine, we need to have fresh in our thoughts that which we value most. In doing so, every decision that confronts us will be made according to our values.
It will take time. It will take practice. But, in due time, our choices will approach automatic. Our hesitation will diminish.
We want to come to the point where having to ask whether or not our decision is consistent with our values is less necessary. The habits we form should be planned and in accordance with our stated values.
Our behavior must always be consistent with our stated values. Otherwise, our integrity is called into question. If we behave contrary to our stated values, we are showing ourselves untruthful. We are lying to the world, or we are lying to ourselves. Truth will reveal itself. Our values reveal themselves.
If you have yet to consider your values—really consider your values and write them down. Don’t delay. Your values will dictate what you prioritize in life. Your values will guide how you live and work. Whether they are written down our not, your values are leading the decisions you make. Ultimately, however, your values are your choice. You, and you alone, determine what you cherish most.
To define your values, consider what is most important to you. Make a list. What makes you happy? Of what things are you proud? What gives you joy and satisfaction?
I would suggest just writing all the things that come to mind? What are the common themes? As the themes emerge, consider how these can be stated for easy recollection. My values, for example are stated as: faith, family, friends, growth, health, and impacting others. Three Fs, G, H, and I. I can quickly recall these in my head to take a periodic values check.
Faith, family, and friends are consistent with my mantra “I am third”—“My Lord is first, my friends are second, and I am third” from Gale Sayers I am Third. These are a priority to me and, hence, something I value.
Growth reflects my passion for “well-centered fitness”. It reminds me to stay on track with my growth plan—to be my best today; and be better tomorrow.
Health is also consistent with my “well-centered fitness” and my career choice as an exercise physiologist.
Lastly, I want to leave a mark on the world. I want to positively impact the lives with which I come in contact.
Know what you (want to) value and live accordingly—with consistency and confidence. Be transformed by your values and be transformative in your relationships. Carpe momento!
“A mission statement is not something you write overnight… But fundamentally, your mission statement becomes your constitution, the solid expression of your vision and values. It becomes the criterion by which you measure everything else in your life.”—Stephen R. Covey