Your values are your north star when decisions get messy
Close your eyes and picture a compass spinning wildly in the dark. That’s how choices feel when you lack clarity of priorities. Now imagine two bright points: your top values glowing across the horizon. You gently anchor the compass to those lights, and it steadies. Your heart rate slows. You know where you stand.
A leader named Maya found herself overwhelmed by competing demands—tight budgets, ambitious goals, and a team crying out for empathy. In a quiet moment, she wrote down her two guiding truths: honesty and care. She realized that a tough budget cut could be handled transparently rather than through whisper campaigns. By sharing the numbers and inviting suggestions, she held true to both values.
Scientists in behavioral economics note that values-driven choices reduce decision fatigue. When we stop second-guessing priorities, our minds free up energy for creative problem solving. Grounded by honesty and care, Maya navigated stormy meetings and built deeper trust. Whenever you feel lost, return to your two values, and they’ll light your way.
Remember those two values you picked—the bright stars guiding you through the fog. When a tough call arises, pause, breathe, and place your hand on your heart. Ask which of your core beliefs shines clearest here—honesty, courage, care—and then follow its pull. Name your choice out loud: “I’m choosing honesty by sharing this tough news clearly.” You’ll feel a quiet confidence in the moment and chart a clear path forward.
What You'll Achieve
You’ll gain permanent clarity in chaotic moments, reducing second-guessing and boosting decisive action.
Pinpoint and live your true north
Circle your top two values
Review the list of values and choose the two that feel most essential. Ask yourself: “Which of these guide my toughest decisions?” Write them where you can see them each day.
List aligned and conflicting actions
For each value, write three actions that support it and three that betray it. For example, if your value is “courage,” supporting actions might be speaking up in meetings; conflicting actions, staying silent to avoid awkwardness.
Apply values to a current dilemma
Pick one tough choice you’re facing. Ask: “Which action best fits my values?” Let your values guide you to the next step, then journal how it felt to use them as a compass.
Reflection Questions
- Which decision kept you up at night because it conflicted with your values?
- How might clarifying two core values transform your daily complaints?
- Where can you place a daily reminder of your values in your workspace?
Personalization Tips
- At home, if your value is family, choose presence over a late finish at work and watch how it strengthens bonds.
- In fitness, if your value is health, swap one fast food meal this week for a homemade option—even on crusty weekdays.
- In a volunteer group, if your value is inclusion, speak up when a new member gets overlooked in planning.
Dare to Lead
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