Activate Your Core Values
Unveiling Your True North
Amidst the myriad choices we face as leaders, our core values serve as the compass that steers us toward authenticity and purpose. We must be clear about who we are, as our values shape our beliefs, our actions, and character.
By remaining true to our values, we cultivate trust in others, providing a clear understanding of what they can anticipate from us. What ideals do you hold dear, regardless of circumstance? What do you want to put out into the world? What impact do you want to make?
The following roadmap will translate your core values into a leadership style that sets the standard through action:
Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences, both personal and professional. Consider when you felt most fulfilled, proud, or aligned with your actions. Identify situations where you were at your best and felt a strong sense of purpose.
Core Beliefs: List your core beliefs about leadership and the workplace. Consider what principles guide your decision-making and actions as a leader. Ask yourself what values are non-negotiable for you?
Start by flipping things around. Begin by identifying what you won't compromise on - your "noes." Setting boundaries is key to creating a solid foundation for your team's operations.
Next, jot down your "yeses." What do you prioritize? Impact? Quality? Understanding? Pinpointing these core values helps you recognize your team's strengths and natural inclinations.
It's crucial to define how your "noes" and "yeses" will guide your actions, and ensure that your communication with the team is clear and straightforward.
Feedback and Input: Seek feedback from colleagues, team members, and mentors. Ask about your strengths and the values they perceive in your leadership style. Feedback provides valuable insight into how your values manifest in others.
Prioritization: Prioritize your values by considering which are most fundamental in guiding your leadership approach. Identify the values you believe are critical to your leadership effectiveness.
Write Your Values Statement: Draft a concise values statement that captures the core principles and beliefs that define your leadership. Use clear and affirmative language to articulate each value.
Test Your Values: Put your identified values to the test in real-world scenarios. Consider how well your values guide your decisions and actions in challenging situations. Reflect on whether your values are consistently evident in your leadership behaviors.
At the core of value-based leadership lies a deep understanding of self and clarity of purpose. The journey of values identification and activation is a continual process of growth and evolution. Regularly revisit your values, reassessing their relevance and significance in your life and career. Embrace new experiences that may challenge or expand your values, allowing them to evolve with your personal growth.