It seems like a simple enough question.

But would you be able to cogently sum up your life philosophy and rationale behind your daily actions if put on the spot?

I’m guessing that for most of us, the answer is no.

We probably have a vague, intuitive sense behind the beliefs that guide our actions, but those feelings are not always easy to put into words.

Most businesses have a defined set of core values designed to guide their decision-making processes to not only ensure they’re staying on-brand but true to the traits that they stand for.

A defined set of core values also provides a measuring stick when mistakes are made. More often than not, big mistakes can be traced back to a decision that strayed from one or more of the values.

So if businesses realize the value of defining and committing to the core values that guide their decisions, why don’t we as individuals?

Sure, businesses often have reach and influence beyond that of an individual.

But as ambitious people looking to create change in our communities and the world, shouldn’t we be equally aligned and consistent in our actions?

Sure, businesses often consist of more than one person, maybe even thousands of people, and a central set of defined values are necessary to ensure each of those individuals understands how to show up and do the work and represent the company.

But in doing our own work, many of us will bring on others at some point to help advance our cause. Isn’t co-ordination equally important for us?

Whether you’re a business, freelancer or individual, defining your core values and beliefs about how you show up in the world and do the work that’s important to you is a valuable tool to ensuring consistency in your decisions.

It’s also a crucial piece to attracting better clients, collaborators, and team members who buy into what you’re doing and how you’re doing it.

Tribes, communities and movements form around shared values.

They are essential if you want to create better work and a bigger impact.

Make them true, make them you, and make them public.

Tell us what you believe.