Most of us are familiar with the axiom, “You are what you eat.” That’s certainly true on the physical level. I believe it’s also true that “You are what you value.” Our values are calling the shots – whether we are aware of it or not. Values are what we hold dear, what we believe in, what matters most to us and gives our life meaning. Oh, and by the way, did I mention that values determine the decisions we make and the actions we take? Our personal values are supremely significant, shaping our lives and our experiences.

Food for Thought ~

For these reasons, it makes sense to be intimately acquainted with your values, to know what’s important to you. For some, this is a ready awareness. Others may need to give it some thought or set aside a chunk of time to reflect on the matter. It would be time well spent, much like aligning navigational instruments so they provide accurate readings. Our values can change and evolve over time, and may need updating. And for leaders, this is just the beginning. Part of being a leader is to guide your team/company through the organizational version of this values clarification and commitment process. My new column in the North Bay Business Journal is on this very subject, and you can click here to read the article.

Question for the day ~

What are your top five values? How do your values synchronize with your behaviors?

In Closing ~

“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” Rumi

Mary