Personal Core Values – How to Use Them to Make Decisions
Lisa Hirst Carnes | June 2023
A couple of weeks ago, while David and I were on a walk, personal core values came up. David had started working with a new business coach, and talking about core values is common.
I told David what I thought his core values were (IMHO), and he did the same for me. Hearing another person’s perspective was interesting.
This experience encouraged us to ask the ArcStone team.
The very next day, we posed this question to the group.
“What are your personal core values?”
At ArcStone, our core values – Service, Craftsmanship, Evolution, Harmony, and Happiness – guide us. They serve as our North Star, guiding our choices and driving us to do great work.
What do we mean by Personal Core Values?
Personal Core Values are Personal
Core Values are Fluid, Yet Stable
Core values may change over time as people gain new experiences and perspectives. It’s essential to be open to this process of self-discovery. By being mindful of our core values, we can ensure that our decisions reflect who we are and what matters most in our lives.
Core Values Serve as a Moral Compass
Core Values Help Us Connect
Core values also allow individuals to create meaningful connections with others. This helps to build strong communities based on mutual understanding.
At the same time, it’s important to remember that everyone’s core values are different.
Now that I’ve convinced you how personal core values can help you, what’s next?
Take time to consider what matters to you. To keep it simple, start with this Core Values worksheet created by our friends at The 1 Thing.
Then, ask friends and family to choose the core values that represent you. This will provide extra insight. Do your own values match other’s perceived values? If not, how can you align how you perceive your own values with how you show up to others?
As you work through this exercise, contact me if you have any questions or revelations. I’d love to hear about your experience!