Our values inform our thoughts, words and actions.
Every individual and every organisation is involved in making hundreds of decisions every day. The decisions we make reflect our values and beliefs, and they are always directed towards a specific purpose. That purpose is the satisfaction of our individual or collective (organisational) needs.
When we use our values to make decisions, we make a deliberate choice to focus on what is important to us. When we share them, they build internal cohesion in a group.
Did you know that there are four types of values that we find in an organisational setting?
These consist of individual values, relationship values, organisational values, and societal values.
Individual Values:
Individual values reflect how you show up in your life and your specific needs-the principles you live by and what you consider important for your self-interest. Individual values include enthusiasm, creativity, humility, and personal fulfilment.
Relationship Values:
Relationship values reflect how you relate to other people in your life, be they friends, family, or colleagues in your organisation. Relationship values include openness, trust, generosity, and caring.
Organisational Values:
Organisational values reflect how your organisation shows up and operates in the world. These include financial growth, teamwork, productivity, and strategic alliances.
Societal Values:
Societal values reflect how you or your organisation relates to society. Societal values include future generations, environmental awareness, ecology, and sustainability.
Our values are important because they help us to grow and develop. They help us to create the future we want to experience.