Value-based success is rooted in the idea of guiding our goal-oriented actions by a set of values and beliefs that confirm the principles of decency, moral integrity and responsibility. By committing oneself to these values, we establish guidelines for our choices and the process of choosing how to act becomes simpler and more affirmative. Our actions become consistent with our values and instead of reacting to circumstances like a rebounding ping-pong ball, we control our actions under the guidance of worthy values.
Michelle Obama expressed this idea poignantly in her now famous comment, “When they go low, we go high.” When others act unethically and in poor taste, one shouldn’t respond at their low level. Instead, one should choose to react by being guided by one’s own higher standards, confirming and affirming their worthiness.
Getting Personal
If you found a bag of money with $1000 in the restroom of a department store, would you hand the bag over to the store manager, or would you keep it? Why?
What if you found the same bag on a public street, and no one saw you find it, what would you do then, and why?
“Values are the guiding principles through which you make choices and decisions. They are influenced by your beliefs, and will help you uphold a higher standard of personal character.” (Archibald Marwizi, author, motivational speaker)
“Living with integrity means behaving in ways that are in harmony with your personal values.” (Barbara De Angelis, personal growth consultant)
For more on the theme of choices and values, click on the following link:
**** Top of post image (Core Values) by Marek Uliasz, from dreamstime.com
