Key values — they’re the core belief systems that guide how we live our lives and present ourselves to others. Some people never give a thought to what drives them, but I think it’s one of the best things you can do for self-development.
On the most recent Full Production, I was featured on The Inner Chief podcast with Greg Layton. We talked a lot about the mining industry and how I got to where I am today with FACE Contracting.
A big point of our talk was what drives us as leaders. So I wanted to share some pertinent questions you can ask yourself to find what your key values really are.
What Gives You a Buzz?
You know that feeling you get when you’re doing something you really love? You forget yourself for a moment and become enraptured by what’s right in front of you.
That’s living, and that’s what you should be striving for.
Of course, not every day can be exciting and feel 100% fulfilling. But you should pay attention to yourself and notice when you’re getting a real buzz from your work. It could be when an employee comes to you for life advice, or when you seal a big deal, or maybe when you take your team on a trip.
What Gives You That Wholesome Feeling?
There’s the buzz you get from sealing deals and kicking ass in business, and then there’s that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you help an old lady cross the street.
What’s That For You?
For a lot of people, it’s seeing a family business grow and making their parents proud. Or seeing their kids light up when you come in for career day at their school. It’s more of a permanent state of knowing that you’re living your best life rather than the fleeting pleasure of success.
How Do You Want People Who Matter to View You?
You should live for yourself, of course, but there are always people in your life whose opinion you respect and value. How do you want these people to view you and your work?
If you want to be seen as the level-headed executive that listens to their employees and values empathy and openness, make sure you’re actually embodying those values. Examine your behaviour daily and adjust it as necessary.
What Do You Want Your Children or Other Loved Ones to Learn From Your Behaviour?
Leading by example: that’s the biggest thing for me. You can tell people that you value integrity and honesty, but unless you’re actually living it you’re just full of hot air.
Some of the people I respect the most say very little. But their actions are powerful and people respect them.
Talk is cheap, especially with kids. They have a way of seeing through the BS that adults spout and knowing when to listen or not listen to someone older than them.
If you want to earn their respect and admiration, you better be living your truth.
Examining your values is crucial to living your best life. Make sure to take some time out of your day to do a status check on whether you’re living how you really want to.
Listen to the entire conversation with Greg here.
