You might wonder how professional values can keep your life in harmony. What about personal values? Aren’t those more essential? The truth is, both kinds of values make for a powerful combination.

In your career, you might think that professionalism and a strong work ethic are top on the list of professional values sought by employers. They are certainly on the list, but many other core values are vital in business and also bring harmony to every aspect of your life.

When you set life goals, just like business goals, aligning your personal and professional values as you map out your plan to stay on track is the shortest route to keeping your life in balance. Plus, it’s the path that adds meaning to your life.

I love what John Gardner said when he talked about achieving personal and professional excellence. As an educator, public official, and political reformer, he offers an interesting perspective. “Meaning is not something you stumble across … Meaning is something you build into your life. You build it out of … the values for which you are willing to sacrifice something … You are the only one who can put together the unique pattern that will be your life. Let it be a life that has dignity and meaning for you. If it does, then the particular balance of success or failure is of less account.”

 

Professional Values Do Double Duty

On the other hand, personal core values play a critical role in how you walk-your-talk in business. So let’s explore how your values define how you show up and keep your life singing in harmony.

It doesn’t matter in which order you put these professional values; the point is to see them fitting somewhere in your life and use them as a guide for making choices and decisions.

There are hundreds of values you can explore to find the ones that fit you best. So, for this article, we’ll touch on just nine of them that work well in all areas of your life.

 

Which Professional Values Are Important To You?

Integrity plays in any arena. Being honest and trustworthy in your words and actions lets others know that you hold yourself to a high moral and ethical standard. Having integrity builds solid relationships no matter where you are.

Being dependable works wonders to show your boss, colleagues, and family that they can count on you for whatever they need or expect.

Taking responsibility for your behavior is a power-play. If you’ve made a mistake or said something hurtful, being the first to clear the air is mature and a professional value that comes in handy at home, too.

Flexibility, also seen as adaptability, allows you to accept change and face it with a collaborative spirit. You are more able to explore new ideas, strategies, and solutions with an open mind.

Loyalty is a two-way street both as a professional value and a personal one. When you are loyal, it is a sign of respect. And, what you give, you get back ten-fold.

When you are self-motivated, you likely take the initiative to see the big picture and take action even before someone asks. That’s a handy value at home and work.

 

What Are Your Personal Values That Also Play At Work?

There are hundreds of options here, too. These three will serve you well as a start.

When you show up in confidence, you inspire others to step up their game as you become a role model because you always do the right thing. You often take calculated risks, clearly understand your strengths and weaknesses, and show that you have faith in yourself.

The opportunity to learn and grow might mean a lot to you. Personal and professional growth is essential for your sense of satisfaction and to keep things in harmony. Keeping up with new trends and developments gives you a purpose at work and personally.

And, last but not least, on this list of nine values that play well in all aspects of your life, having a positive attitude cannot be overlooked. You don’t dwell on adverse circumstances because you’re always looking for new solutions. You create an environment that fosters optimism and enthusiasm, achieving the best outcomes.

 

Now Let Your Values Do The Heavy Lifting

Everyone responds well when you bring outstanding personal and professional values into the atmosphere of your life. When you align yourself with these values, not only do you create a meaningful life for yourself, which includes significant work, but it allows everything in your world to operate in harmony.

Making decisions in life can be challenging, but your values can do the heavy lifting. Use your values as a checklist as you face each new choice or decision. Ask yourself this question: “Does my choice to do X align with my values of integrity, loyalty, and responsibility?” If it does, it’s a no-brainer that you’re on the right track. If it doesn’t, it should be an easy “no” that points you in another direction.

Decide what personal and professional values have meaning for you. Let them be your personal GPS to making good decisions that keep you on track to living your life with dignity, achieving your goals, and bringing harmony and balance both at work and home.

 

Are Decisions Hard For You To Make?

If you struggle to make good choices, you may not be tapping into the personal or professional values that are most important to you.  Getting some guidance may be just what you need.  Being grounded in your core values and having a crystal-clear vision of what you want are the foundation that will get you started on your path. Let’s have a conversation and get you on the right track.  Request your chat with María.