One of my greatest fears in speaking on the topic of core values was thinking that many participants were going to write off the topic as something they already knew all about. Yet, it’s interesting once participants start down the path of thinking beyond the surface level of the topic, the most common question someone will ask is: So what exactly is a core value?
It’s a surprising question when you think you already know all about it! There isn’t a simple answer because when it comes to core values, a concise definition can never explain what your individual journey will help you discover. The good news is that you don’t have to have all the answers or even that much clarity to begin digging to your core. Only the process will bring you the unique answers and increased clarity you will need.
It’s still a good question – What is a core value? What would be your definition? Share it with us in the comments below!
Core values are those principles that guides one’s behavior and actions, both in the short term and the long term; providing benchmarks for deciding ‘right’ from ‘wrong’ steps during the journey.
Hey John,
It’s a great question and one that I agree with you on – – most people don’t really think of a definition.
I’ve been using: a deeply held belief of something you find worthwhile and will use to guide your decisions.
Open to changing it though, so will be interested in what you hear.
Core values are those foundational beliefs embedded so deep into your soul that guide you in making decisions. They are so much of the fiber of who you are that many times the decision is made without even thinking of “why” the decision was made. For example, if servant leadership is a core value of a CEO she/he will, without thinking, always will be thinking of how his decisions will affect the employees and the customer. The fruit or return on integrity of this practice will be increased sales and employee loyalty, and the circle will continue.
For me, a core value is an unwavering belief or way of thinking that controls one’s decisions on how they will act or react to any situation.
There are other values that one holds that may be adjusted to some degree in certain situations, but a core value is unwavering and unbreakable. They trump everything.
Values are beliefs that reflect who I am, that in turn I believe directs my everyday behavior. Values help me live my simple everyday life.
We all know deep down right from wrong. At the end of the day, we all must be able to look ourself in the mirror.
In my business it was everyone got the same deal, for their specific trade class. Ex. Wholesalers that sold my products got a flat O.I. Allowance. Retailers got their deals because they had more tools to promote my products Via Ads.
Core values are those that guide us through good and bad times. They are eternally core to humans in our relationship with the Supreme Power of the world, however you define that.
My definition agrees with the general theme in all the other contributors’. Core values are guiding concepts/beliefs which are deeply-rooted, a part of my essence, unshakable, automatic ~ as everyone has noted and as Bill Johnson states, “of the fiber of who you are.” And as everyone has said in one way or another, core values are an essential help in life, guiding and sustaining us throughout life.
A core value is something that you have a deep belief in that you use to live by in your personal & professional life. It could be said that you live by that belief. We have a core value that was instilled in us from our parents, grand parents, teachers, mentors, bosses, or our pastor.
A lot of great thoughts on the definition of CORE VALUES. I appreciate each of you sharing your insights on this … and will continue to do so as we continue to DIG DEEPER each week.