We can say certain things are important to us but it’s what we do in the face of adversity that matters.
TBBC’s Values
Our core values are near and dear to our hearts. And it’s not just me. It’s all of our team members. Rather than just hang them on a plaque in our office we try to live them out each day. Often times when we are making decisions we look to our values for clues on what we should do.
To illustrate the difference of saying what your values are and living them out, I share with your Enron’s core values listed in its annual report to share holders…
1. Communication – We have an obligation to communicate.
2. Respect – We treat others as we would like to be treated.
3. Integrity – We work with customers and prospects openly, honestly, and sincerely.
4. Excellence– We are satisfied with nothing less than the very best in everything we do. (Enron, Annual Report, 2000, p. 29).
Personal examples
One think that is extremely important to me is health and fitness. I’m willing to sacrifice things that might seem better in the short term for it. Things like tasty treats, time doing other things, more sleep, etc. I know I will be so much better off in the long term. In fact, my wife and I were blessed with our second daughter this past Thursday. One goal that I had was that no matter how difficult things get I will not miss my workouts and I will continue to track my nutrition. These are habits that I want to keep strong. So far so good.
Another example is family. It’s one thing to say my family is important but that doesn’t make sense if I am working around the clock to support a lifestyle that isn’t really needed while the “valuable” family time is sacrificed. In fact if our basic needs are met I’m willing to sacrifice money in the short term. I believe that this will pay dividends I the long run both for the family and financially.
As mentioned, we are so excited about our new baby. One of my biggest dreams and goals has always been to do whatever I can to help facilitate an environment where my children can be close with one another. My vision is to see Alyssa (4) and Olivia (just born) grow up being extremely close and supportive of one another. I will do whatever it takes to help this occur.
Action steps
The first step is to understand what values are important to you.
Next, spend a few minutes after the day and jot down the times throughout the day that you had the opportunity to live those values out.
If there were times that you didn’t, what changes can you make?