Core values are the foundation of effective leadership. They act as a compass, guiding our decisions, behaviors, and interactions with the world. For leaders, understanding and defining these values can have a profound impact, shaping priorities and influencing choices in both personal and professional spheres. At their core, values are non-negotiables—they reflect who we are as leaders and the legacy we aim to build.
At Plum Leadership Group, our coaching programs begin with an exploration of core values. We guide clients through exercises designed to uncover and refine the values that truly define them. This isn’t about listing surface-level attributes but about delving deep into what resonates at the core of one’s identity. The process involves writing, reflecting, and revisiting these values, creating clarity that often leads to transformative insights.
The Winding Path
However, aligning leadership practices with core values isn’t always straightforward. Leaders may face internal conflicts when competing values pull them in different directions. For example, a leader might value both connection and hard work but struggle to prioritize between the two. Through coaching, we help them navigate these tensions, uncovering the root causes and finding pathways to alignment. Often, the clarity gained brings a sense of lightness, enabling leaders to make confident decisions.
Another common challenge arises when a leader’s values are misaligned or overlooked. This misalignment can manifest as frustration or tension, signalling that something essential has been violated. By recognizing these moments and addressing the underlying issues, leaders can realign their actions with their values, fostering greater authenticity and purpose.
In my own experience, defining my core values has transformed how I lead and make decisions. I recall a moment of indecision over attending a social event. While my list of pros and cons was evenly matched, reflecting on my values provided clarity. My commitment to growth—a key personal value—pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. The result? A rewarding experience that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Aligning decisions with values brings a sense of fulfillment that transcends temporary doubts.
At Plum, we integrate core values into all our coaching engagements. They form the bedrock of authenticity and influence a leader’s style and decision-making processes. Tools such as Insights Discovery and EQ-i 2.0 assessments enhance this journey, offering insights into how values intersect with personality, purpose, and resilience. Misalignments revealed through these tools often point to opportunities for growth and transformation.
Connecting with Your Values
For leaders seeking to connect with their values, I recommend starting with reflective questions: When have you felt truly fulfilled? What patterns emerge from those moments? Defining and articulating these values can illuminate the path forward. For those facing persistent tension or indecision, partnering with a coach can provide the clarity needed to lead with confidence.
Ultimately, core values are more than a leadership tool—they’re a gateway to understanding who you truly are. When leaders lead with their values, they inspire respect, confidence, and alignment in their teams and organizations. Knowing your values is knowing your purpose—and that’s the key to transformational leadership.
By: Lindsay Zubek
