The Transformative Power of Brené Brown's Core Values: Your Team Will Thank You
I believe that making the best choices with our time starts with making those choices in alignment with our values.
As I say that, you’re likely to begin compiling a list of the values you hold dear. You probably have a bunch of them. I thought I had a comprehensive set of values too, until I started reading Brené Brown's book, Dare to Lead. (Great book! You need to go and get a copy!)
In her book, Brené proposes that we typically operate from just two core values. Brené’s definition of a value is:
“A value is a way of being or believing that we hold most important.”
Brené makes it a point that identifying just two values can significantly enhance our effectiveness as individuals and leaders.
“Preposterous!” I thought at first. “Surely, I must have more than two values to lead a fulfilling life.”
However, Brené is an esteemed researcher with profound ideas, so I decided to do her exercise. I downloaded her list of values and spent time reflecting on it. I began circling some values while marking others out, realizing that some were indeed variations of the same fundamental principle.
I even asked the three questions that she gave me:
Does this value define me?
When I’m living out this value, is this me at my best?
What is the filter that I use to make hard decisions? (In other words, which values do I rely on when faced with tough choices?)
I got it down to two! Two might not seem like a big deal to you, but it was amazing how when I came up on tough decisions or even how I was going to use my time, it was so easy to refer back to my two values. I found myself saying, “Well, based on that being what I value, then this is what I should do with my time.” My “If this, then that” of time management became much more simpler.
See how it can work in your world with some practical examples of core values in action. To illustrate how identifying core values can influence decision-making, here are three examples:
Value: Integrity
Decision-Making: In a team setting, if integrity is a core value, team members might choose to openly discuss challenges in a project rather than concealing mistakes. This transparency builds trust within the team and encourages accountability.
Value: Innovation/Growth
Decision-Making: A leader might focus on allocating time for brainstorming sessions or hackathons instead of sticking strictly to routine tasks. A team might prioritize professional development opportunities over immediate project deadlines. This commitment can lead to creative solutions that drive the business forward.
Value: Collaboration
Decision-Making: A focus on collaboration may lead a team to implement regular cross-departmental and cross-generational meetings. By doing so, they ensure that diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes, enhancing overall project outcomes.
The Challenge
While I don’t often issue challenges to others, I encourage you to take time for self-reflection.
Download Brené's list and spend 10 to 20 minutes contemplating your own values.
Ask yourself whether each value truly defines who you are and if it represents you at your best.
Determine which values serve as your filters for making difficult decisions.
Once you've narrowed it down to two or three core values, observe how much more effectively you can navigate choices regarding your time and priorities. This clarity can transform not only your decision-making process but also enhance your overall fulfillment in life.
Aligning your daily actions with your core values creates a sense of purpose and direction. Ask yourself, “Is this me at my best, and if it is, is this the filter I use to make difficult decisions?” When you get it down to those two or three values, watch how much more effectively you can make choices with your time.
