Understanding Values: The Importance of Actions Over Words
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Chapter 1: The Personal Nature of Values
Values may appear to be universal, yet they are deeply personal, especially in a business context. What I prioritize may not hold the same weight for you. Similarly, what I perceive as a risk might seem trivial to you.
Values may look universal
But it's way more personal than that, even in business.
Parenting Insights
Becoming a parent brought this distinction into sharp focus. Suddenly, your values and priorities become evident to others, manifesting in how you interact with your child.
What holds the utmost significance for you? Is it health, safety, enjoyment, freedom, love, or respect? While many would agree that these values are vital, their order of importance can vary greatly among individuals, leading to differing interpretations of behavior.
For instance, children playing joyfully may be viewed as delightful or disruptive. Indulging in sweets could be seen as a loving gesture or as neglecting proper nutrition. Allowing a child to ride a bike might be viewed as promoting fitness or as an act of recklessness.
Every parent has likely faced harsh criticism for decisions that seem beneficial to them but are misunderstood by others. The reality is nuanced; context matters, and perceptions are shaped by personal experiences.
Back to Business
The dynamics are similar when it comes to business values and behaviors. Many organizations profess to value excellence, innovation, leadership, integrity, and customer orientation. However, the true test lies in how these values are prioritized and enacted.
You may claim to value excellence, yet failing to invest in top talent and streamlined processes can lead to short-term savings at the expense of quality. Likewise, while innovation might be part of your stated values, emphasizing productivity may leave little room for creativity and experimentation, especially during budget constraints.
Leadership is a multifaceted discipline that demands ongoing investment in time, coaching, and personal growth. Unfortunately, not every leader is afforded the opportunity to develop their skills or learn from their mistakes.
Integrity is often touted as a core value, but its application can be complex. It involves being true to oneself while facing difficult decisions, such as balancing client commitments against supplier obligations. Such choices are rarely straightforward, and their implications can be profound.
Prioritizing customer service might seem straightforward, but what if sustainability is another fundamental value? Increasing production efficiency to support sustainability could result in conflicting priorities, necessitating trade-offs.
In conclusion, articulating your values is crucial in both personal and professional realms. However, embodying them is even more essential. Actions speak louder than words, and consistency between stated values and behaviors is critical.
Repeatedly stating one thing while acting contrary can lead to internal and external repercussions. Stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, and customers, are quick to notice any discrepancies.
This scenario mirrors a parent restricting their child’s laughter, resulting in sadness while neighbors complain about noise.
No one benefits unless you discover your authentic self, live in accordance with it, communicate transparently, and accept the consequences.
The first video titled "What to Do When You Feel Useless and Alone" offers insights and practical advice for coping with feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.
The second video, "WHEN YOU FEEL WORTHLESS - Jordan Peterson (Best Motivational Speech)," provides motivational guidance on overcoming feelings of worthlessness and finding purpose.