As a leader, it is imperative that your strengths and core values align to ensure you not only lead effectively, but lead in a way that allows you to utilise your core values and offer fulfilment.

When it comes to values, they are often confused with morals, but they are, in fact, very different. Morals are values by which you operate within society, almost like personal laws that are also accepted as standards within the community.

Working out what your strengths are is easy and second nature to most. If you know what you are good at and know the tasks that you need to delegate or outsource, you will generally have a good view of what your strengths are as a leader. However, it is a little more involved to learn what your core values are.

What are core values?

Your core values are the things that are important to you on a personal level.

These values are what make you a great leader. They are the things you need in your life to function at your best. They are the things you believe deep down makes you who you are as an individual and as a leader.

Your core values are what you draw upon every day as you go about your life. These are the things that draw others to you and enable you to lead from a place that creates change.

When your strengths and values are identified, and you utilise them in alignment with each other, you become the leader that can not only motivate but inspire and create change within an organisation.

How do you identify your core values?

For this part, you will need a journal or some paper. Allow some time to work on this activity, as it will require some thought. Identifying your core values can be done using these three steps.

1. Reflect on your experiences:

• Peak experiences: What moments in your life made you feel most fulfilled? What values were present? (e.g., Helping someone, solving a problem, being creative)
• Role models: Who do you admire? What qualities do they have that resonate with you? (e.g., Honesty, kindness, determination)
• Conflicts: When did you feel uncomfortable or compromised? What values were missing? (e.g., Fairness, respect, loyalty)

2. Generate a list:

• Brainstorm: Write down any words that come to mind when you think about what’s truly important to you.
• Explore resources: Search for “list of core values” online. This can help you discover values you may not have considered.
• Prioritise: Choose 5-10 values that resonate most deeply.

3. Test and refine:

• “Why” test: For each value, ask yourself “why is this important to me?” until you reach its core significance.
• Action check: Do your actions align with your values? If not, adjust your behaviour or reconsider your list.
• Stay open: Your values may evolve over time. Revisit and refine your list periodically.

If you are unsure how to work out your core values and strengths or feel there is a disconnect between the two, it might be time to work with a leadership coach or mentor to help you create a clear picture for you to identify with. Feel free to get in touch to learn more.