A value is a thing or condition we consistently act upon to get and to keep. A value is a vector – a direction with a force.
The clearest indication of what we value is how we spend our time and our money. It is not what we say that tells people what we value, it is what we do.
Let’s delve into the importance of aligning your actions with your values to create a meaningful impact.
What are your values?
Your values encompass the important things or conditions that hold significance to you. They reflect the actions you aspire to undertake in both your personal and professional life, with the intention of making a meaningful impact.
When you have a clear understanding of your values, it becomes easier to incorporate them into your daily practices.
Values serve as a guiding framework for decision-making. For instance, if you prioritize honesty as a value, you will consistently demonstrate it through your interactions with others.
Allow me to share a personal anecdote from some years ago. I had the privilege of sharing a meal with the President of a prominent company. He kindly covered the bill and offered me the receipt afterward. However, as I did not pay for the meal, I politely declined the receipt. This surprised him, as he informed me that entrepreneurs often took the receipt for tax purposes. Despite his involvement in their actions, he expressed disappointment in their choice.
It is important to recognize that people form judgments based on our actions, rather than mere words or declarations.
How many Values should you have?
I am often asked if there is a universally right number of values.
In your Business Definition, the right number of values is between four and six. This is a number that can be effectively expressed and is relatively easy to remember.
If you list too many Values in your business definition, they begin to lose some of their meaning for you and the other stakeholders who have an interest in your business.
