Identifying Your Core Values

“Values are like fingerprints. Nobody’s are the same, but you leave them all over everything you do.” – Elvis Presley

 

Leadership is not just about what you do—it’s about who you are and what you stand for. Your core values are the principles that guide your behavior, decisions, and leadership style. They act as your internal compass, especially in times of uncertainty, conflict, or change.

Great leaders lead from their values—consistently and visibly.

What Are Core Values?

Core values are the fundamental beliefs that shape:

• What you consider right or wrong

• How you treat others

• How you make decisions

• What you prioritize as a leader and person

Examples of core values:

• Integrity

• Courage

• Growth

• Honesty

• Empathy

• Excellence

• Service

• Responsibility

• Innovation

• Inclusion

Everyone has values—but not everyone has clearly identified or articulated them. Without this clarity, you may lead reactively rather than intentionally.

Why Values Matter in Leadership

Leaders who know and live their values:

• Build trust and credibility

• Make faster, more consistent decisions

• Handle pressure and conflict with integrity

• Create psychological safety and clear expectations for their teams

• Feel more aligned and energized in their role

In contrast, leaders who lack clarity on their values may seem inconsistent, reactive, or inauthentic.

“When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.” – Roy Disney

 

How to Identify Your Core Values (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Reflect on Your Peak Moments

• Think about 2–3 moments in your life when you felt proud, fulfilled, or truly “yourself.”

• What was happening? Why did it matter to you?

• What values were you honoring in those moments?

Step 2: Consider What Makes You Angry or Uncomfortable

• What behaviors in others frustrate you deeply?

• Often, these point to violated values (e.g., dishonesty if you value truth).

Step 3: Narrow Down a List

• Start with a broad list (20–30 values), then narrow it down to 5–7 that truly define you.

• Ask yourself:

  • Would I stand by this value even if it cost me something?

  • Does this value guide my everyday choices and leadership style?

Step 4: Define Each Value in Your Own Words

• Avoid abstract labels—be personal and specific.

• Example:

  • Integrity = “Doing what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.”

  • Growth = “Constantly seeking to learn, improve, and challenge myself and others.”

Examples of Leaders and Their Values