The Power of Values: Navigating Life and Work with Integrity

Let me share the story of a woman who was part of one of our past programs—we’ll call her Nancy.

Nancy was a seasoned sales professional, known for being a top producer in her previous roles. Confident and fearless, she excelled in her field. But in her current job, everything had changed. Her numbers were plummeting, her bosses were constantly criticizing her, and her confidence was at an all-time low. Despite working harder and pushing herself more than ever, nothing seemed to improve.

As the pressure mounted, Nancy spiraled further into frustration and doubt, unable to understand what had gone wrong.

The Breakthrough
It was during one of our sessions on Values that Nancy had her breakthrough. Through the exercises we use to help people identify their true values, Nancy had an aha moment. As we explored the culture and expectations of her workplace, it became glaringly clear—her bosses were asking her to do things that conflicted with her true values.

She had been wrestling with this conflict unconsciously, pushing herself to meet expectations that didn’t align with who she was. The inner struggle was draining her confidence and energy, making success impossible.

Once Nancy recognized what was happening, everything changed. She realized she couldn’t thrive in a role that required her to compromise her values. With newfound clarity, she left that job and found a position with a company whose culture aligned with her principles.

The result? She immediately became a top producer again, thriving in an environment that respected and supported her values.

The Impact of Living by Your Values
Nancy’s story illustrates a powerful truth: Our values influence, govern, and guide our lives, whether we’re conscious of them or not.

When we act in alignment with our values, we feel confident, at peace, and fulfilled. When we’re out of alignment, we experience discomfort, stress, procrastination, and even self-doubt.

Here are some signs you may be wrestling with a values conflict:

  • Have you ever felt uneasy doing what was asked of you but couldn’t figure out why?
  • Have you ever regretted something you said or did, wondering why you acted that way?
  • Have you ever hesitated to make a decision because something just didn’t feel right?

These moments often stem from a conflict between external expectations and your internal values.

In one of our classes, I asked if anyone had ever quit a job because of a conflict of values. One participant reflected on past decisions she had always questioned. She realized she had been making values-based decisions all along—without even being aware of it.

Living Intentionally with Your Values
When you consciously identify your values and commit to living by them, life becomes easier, less stressful, and more fulfilling. Decisions are clearer. Procrastination fades. You no longer waste energy wrestling with invisible conflicts—you’re free to move forward with confidence and purpose.

Take a moment to reflect:

  • What are your true values?
  • Are you living and working in alignment with them?
  • How might your life change if you intentionally honored your values every day?

Your values are a compass, guiding you toward a life of peace, fulfillment, and success. Don’t ignore them—embrace them.

To Your Intentional Success!