Values (Developing Your Own) - Week 2 Special Themes

[Ice]

So this is Week 2 of our special themes coaching live thread - going live on Thursday.

This is for guys who have never thought much about building their own values, guys who have their own values in mind and this is an opportunity to lock it down, or guys who know their values and want to revisit.

The best description of values, and what it can do, from what I have seen - is from the book "The Leadership Challenge" by Kouzes & Posner. Here it is:

“Values influence every aspect of our lives: our moral judgments, our responses to others, our commitments to personal and organizational goals. Values set the parameters for the hundreds of decisions we all make every day. Options that run counter to our value systems are seldom acted upon; and if they are, it’s done with a sense of compliance rather than commitment. Values constitute our personal ‘bottom line’.

Values serve as guides to action. They inform our decisions as to what to do and what not to do; they tell us when to say yes, or no, and help us really understand why we mean it. If you believe, for instance, that diversity enriches innovation and service, then you should know what to do if people with differing views keep getting cut off when they offer up fresh ideas. If you value collaboration over individualistic achievement, then you’ll know what to do when your best salesperson skips team meetings and refuses to share information with your colleagues. If you value independence and initiative over conformity and obedience, you’ll be more likely to challenge something your manager says if you think it’s wrong.

Values are empowering. WE are much more in control of our own lives when we are clear about our personal values. When values are clear, we don’t have to rely on direction from someone in authority. By knowing which means and ends are most important, we can act independently. We can also recognize a conflict between our own values and the values of the organization or society, and we can exercise about how to respond.

Values also motivate. They keep us focused on why we’re doing what we’re doing and on the ends towards which we’re striving. Values are the banners that fly as we persist, as we struggle, as we toil. We refer to them when we need to replenish our energy.”

It’s one thing to expect that leaders are clear about their values and beliefs, but it’s another to prove that it really matters if they are. How do you live through your personal values?”


So now is the time you ask your self - what are your values? What values do you clearly embody, and what values do you wish you incorporate to develop yourself as a man, as a leader.


Take a list at these values if you need ideas for coming up with your own values:

http://www.stevepavlina.com/articles/list-of-values.htm


Post what questions you have here now. On Thursday, we will be hearing from you on your values, and what your definition means to you, and what related behaviours.



Here's an example of what we want:

So for me, I value authenticity.

My definition of authenticity: Being able to convey and lead myself authentically through all situations with people.

Related behaviours include being open and vulnerable, challenging others and allowing others to challenge me on my actions. Encouraging and supporting people in my team to lead through their own values.


I also value strength.

My definition of strength is: Being able to get myself, and people/teams, through anything, including the toughest situations. There is no failure, no other option to succeed than to push through, lead and work together.

Related behaviour is being strong for others in times of need, being able to step up and take care of others, and being the person people go to to feel safe.

[Bravo]

BUMP

for live coaching thread tonight!