The Case for Core Values

Values speak of worth. We often hear of "family values" or "traditional values." These speak of positions or beliefs that are of sufficient worth to warrant a strong defense.

Core values are essential principles that represent the very heart of our beliefs or standards. These are positions or practices of great worth. They keep the "blood" flowing in every pursuit.

Without a set of core values, you will wander and waver at the onset of adversity. You will vacillate in confrontation. In short, you will be tempted to quit when times get tough.

Such was the situation in which I found myself over the past month. I was denied a desired promotion. Our financial situation at home worsened. Several "big ticket" items in the home are showing wear and tear, requiring replacement in the near future. On and on it goes.

Discouragement began to set it. Hopelessness was on the horizon. Life was being ruled by the tyrannical urgency of the moment, rather than the lasting value of the future. Thankfully, I had established a set of core values that provided a glimmer of light when all seemed so dark.

Three core values provided renewed "vision" when the fog of uncertainty set in. While they are only concepts/words, they provide the impetus for a commitment to keep on keeping on. When employed, they help to rekindle the inner drive that says, "Don't quit!"

The core values that are the heart of my life and business pursuits are integrity, initiative and industry. Over the next few days I'll "unpack" them and show how they have made a difference in my life. I trust that you'll find the need to establish a set of core values as well.

As always. . .we're here to make a difference!

ALWAYS . . . Make a Difference!

After a rather lengthy hiatus, I've decided to return to the blogging world.

During the past month, I have spent a great deal of time considering what I really wanted to accomplish both in blogging and in business. What I have determined is that the key to both is found in the title of this blog. No matter how you cut it, the key to success is truly making a difference. The problem, I found, is that making a difference is hard work.

Making a difference assumes a set of core values that drive consistent action. You can't make a difference by being on again/off again. So, what core values drive me in my personal and business pursuits? Stay tuned! In my next several posts I'll identify values that I believe are non-negotiable for true success.

Remember . . . our goal is to always make a difference!