Living by Core Values: Honesty, Integrity, and Respect
Our values shape our decisions and impact the way we interact with others. They are the guiding principles that help us stay true to ourselves and contribute positively to our community.
Important Principles that Truly Matter
Not all values and principles are equally important. What truly matters are the ones that resonate with our core beliefs and influence our behavior. For me, honesty, hard work, helping others, showing love and respect, being a good husband and father, and striving to live as Jesus Christ did are fundamental values. These principles are not just empty ideals; they are essential in today's culture where social media sometimes glorifies negative values and principles.
Integrity as a Core Value
Integrity is not a suit that you put on in the morning and take off at night. It is a fundamental part of who you are. During my tenure as the CEO of a large company, I emphasized the importance of integrity. As a father, I taught my son that life involves compromises, but integrity must never be compromised. This message was not lost on my employees. As we expanded our company to include 30 businesses across various industries, we integrated integrity into the fabric of each organization.
Building a Culture of Integrity
Integrity is the foundation for a strong and successful organization. In my companies, freedom from integrity violations was tantamount. Demonstrating a lack of integrity could swiftly result in an employee's departure. Maintaining integrity is not about fake it till you make it; it is a deeply ingrained characteristic that defines you.
The Multidimensional Nature of Values
In my view, values are multidimensional. There are multiple dimensions that contribute to our values and principles. Here’s how they align:
Third Dimension
Dimension Values Friendliness Happiness Security Comfort Protection StabilityFourth Dimension
Dimension Values Courage Grit Determination Hard-work Neutrality Dignity Willingness Integrity Acceptance Respect ResponsibilityFifth Dimension
Perspective with a capital 'P' aligns with the ability to comprehend and understand. Art, on the other hand, is about communicating and expressing emotions. Emotional intelligence relies on unconditioned positive regard and skepticism. Curiosity goes hand in hand with the law of attraction. The Theory of Everything is not about absolute truth but rather relativism.
Practicing Kindness and Respect
Practicing kindness and respect is essential. Judging others and treating them the way you wish to be treated can make a significant difference. Show kindness to those who are less fortunate, and maintain good manners and compassion. Showing appreciation for the things given to you demonstrates gratitude. Family is of utmost importance, and living these values daily is a testament to their significance.
Conclusion
Living by these values is not just about personal growth; it is about making a positive impact on the world around us. Integrity, honesty, and respect are the cornerstones of a successful and fulfilling life. By embracing these principles, we can contribute to a culture of positivity and kindness.