If we were out for a coffee and having a conversation about values, I think most people would be able to contribute to this and offer what they feel is right and what makes common sense.  Ie, treating others with respect, having integrity, and being kind.  Most (not all) have a sense of what is right and wrong, so when we think about values, we often start there.  The societal norms around acceptable human behaviour will also surface in these conversations.  However, there are a few limitations here. 

1. What’s common sense to us may not be to others (common sense… not so common)

2. What feels right to us may not feel right to others, as this is often dependent on our background (family values and behaviours)

3. Cultural norms and the societal values you have been exposed to will also have a significant impact and are not the same for all

In a leadership role, knowing what you stand for and what your personal values are is important.  It provides you with a guide on managing most, if not all, situations.  This helps to define the type of leader you are. It helps others to get to know you.  It helps others manage their expectations of you so they have a better idea of what to expect when you’re in a situation as a team.

Do you have a set of personal values that go beyond what most people will recall if asked that question?  How are these personal values unique to you?   

Generating a set of personal values is an interesting exercise because we don’t often think about what these are and how we live them.

Your personal values should be genuine for you.  They should form a set of guiding principles that help you make decisions, filter out right and wrong for you, and effectively be your personal code.

A way to discover what your values are is to undertake the personal values exercise.  Start with a group of words.  What is important to you?  Why are these words important? What’s the meaning you attribute to these words?  Then create a short statement around the word.  Finally, think about an example of your statement.

Here’s an example:

One of my words is Trust.

My statement is:

I develop trust by always demonstrating integrity

My example is:

I always think about what is fair and reasonable, and I connect with this by demonstrating empathy.  This helps me to build trust in and with others.

Aim for four-five values and then create a visual reminder for yourself.  Pictures are great for this.  Creating your personal values can enhance decision-making, help you build better relationships, and help others better understand you.

Rita Cincotta writes, mentors, and speaks on individual and team performance, leadership development, resilience, and new ways of working. She works with organisations to develop human centred solutions that help people and businesses to thrive.