What is a core value really?

Before I became immersed and undeniably passionate about core values, I really just knew them as:

• Words written on the walls and websites of just about every brand

• Ideas I used loosely when expressing things I cared about or believed in

Although those aren’t wrong, they are just the tip of the value iceberg with so much depth, impact and possibility waiting right below the surface.

Before you can begin to identify or define your core values it is important to first clearly understand what a value is and what it is not. Expanding upon Brené’s beautiful definition, these ideas helped me better understand them:

Values are not:

• Chosen

• Aspirational

• Cut and paste

• The same as your morals

• All talk no action

Values are:

• A representation of who you are right now

• Evolve over time as you do

• Unique & intrinsic to you, although you may hold the same value as the person next to you it is most likely defined completely differently

• Expressed, perceived & reinforced in your words, actions & decisions

• A brilliant filter to understand what makes you feel seen, heard, valued, balanced & fulfilled
  The foundation to defining your authentic leadership style

• A powerful way to name why a situation, person or job is leaving you feeling frustrated, dismissed, hurt or icky
  Most impactful when intentionally honored not just be yourself but by others too

• A short, prioritized list of less than 5, this isn’t a more the merrier situation

Naming, defining and fully understanding your core values is critical in understanding yourself. They're a guiding compass in making big decisions, navigating tricky situations or building boundaries.

Values are the gateway to seizing our own happiness, the clarity to name the root of our frustrations and the confidence to claim what we really want and need.

They provide a new level of understanding into why some work environments, managers or clients make you feel great and other leave you feeling awful.

I've come to see them as the foundational secret sauce to unlocking career clarity and can be a powerful starting point to answer questions around what's not working and what should come next.

Curious to explore your values?

Let’s connect and discuss what’s possible when you name and honor your values.