Most people, if you ask them if they are true to their values, will say “yes”. But, I ask you, are they really? Our values are a combination of a lifelong journey. It starts with the way that our parents raise us. We’re influenced by the people that we become friends with throughout our lives and the people that we work with. There are examples along the way that are good and bad. We need to take advantage of these lessons and learn from them. Your values can change over time based on circumstances.
Are you easily swayed in your beliefs? Some people are set in their ways and no matter what goes on around them; they will not change your values or beliefs. Your highest priorities that are deeply held inside of you are the values that define you the most. So, are you true to those values?
This is where I differed in my approach to leadership than some managers that I worked with. My religious faith has defined these values and they are true in my heart. I try my hardest to never waiver from them. Another word you can use for values is morals. Throughout my career, I have questioned the way that some of my previous managers have run their businesses. I know that what they were doing to their employees was not against the law. It, unless other hand, was not always seem fair. It sometimes went against what I would consider my moral code of ethics.
I have noticed a trend, over the years, with new managers. These are the ones that are probably the in their 30s and are trying to get ahead within a corporation. They will do virtually anything to be able to get the next promotion. They are even willing to sacrifice some of their own values if needed to please their bosses. Why is this, I ask? It is because their priorities are not right. I know this from my own experience. I even harmed my own personal relationships in order to get the next promotion at work.
You need to stay true to your values and if it means looking for another company to work for then maybe that is an option that you need to look into. God will reward you for being true to your religious faith and values. You need to have trust in Him.
If you start to follow the ways of those around you and lose sight of your religious values remember this from Romans 12:2 (New Living Translation)
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
