We make our worlds with words
Words play a crucial role in conveying meaning and building the world in which we work and live. They act as vehicles that carry our beliefs, principles, and intentions to others. Embedded within the words we use are the values we hold as significant. These are called “shared values,” because they belong to everyone in the group. Shared values inform the way we all see the world, what’s important, and how we might achieve something together. Shared values are the values that everyone brings to our relationships, school, and workplaces.
That’s why it’s difficult when someone asks, “what are my core values”? We would respond, “let’s start by exploring how values show up. Without a shared language, effective communication and engagement around values can be challenging.
Types of Values
At TVH we serve to support others as they start a journey of values discovery, or continue to explore values. The approach we take is quite structured. Despite being “efficient,” we don’t ever ask Google, “show me my values,” because we seek insight that is personal. We are confident that a structured approach to values is richer and more useful. Which values provide support in difficult times, provide focus on a daily basis, and a vision for the future? If we can answer that simple question, it will go a long way to developing a language of shared values.
A shared values-language ensures that the meaning behind the words is accurately understood by everyone engaged in the conversation. It helps eliminate misunderstandings and promotes clarity in expressing values, fostering a deeper connection and alignment. Consider “goals values” and “means values” as two ways of expressing the outcomes we want to achieve in life. Goals values express life outcomes, and means values describe the skills needed to achieve those outcomes. There are values that give us foundation in difficult times; values that provide a daily orientation and motivation; and values that will pull us into the future. The library of values we use contains 125 goals and means values. Well-considered, reliable, and the basis for a sound language of shared values. Google might provide a million values in a matter of milliseconds – far too many for making meaning.
Engaging One Another
When there is a shared language about values, and a shared collection of values, we can better comprehend and relate to the conversation about values. This facilitates a sense of unity and shared purpose, as everyone is on the same page and has a common understanding of what the values represent. We work together to find individual and shared meaning from the values in our world. Effective communication, facilitated by a shared values language, helps build trust among individuals and teams at work. Consequently, when values are communicated clearly and consistently, it fosters an environment where we can explore application to situations in life an at work. This, in turn, cultivates trust and a sense of security within individuals, organizations, and communities.
Consequently, a values language enables individuals to actively engage with one another in discussions about values. It allows for meaningful conversations, encouraging participation, collaboration, and the exchange of diverse perspectives. By discovering and embracing a shared language, individuals can forge stronger connections and relationships based on shared values. It promotes a sense of belonging and unity, fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and understood. A shared values language will go a long way to convey meaning and build the world in which you live.
It is crucial to establish a common language that effectively communicates the meaning and intent behind the values. This language creates a foundation for open dialogue, understanding, and alignment, ultimately bringing individuals together in pursuit of shared values.
For more information on creating a deeper understanding for values and a shared language about values for yourself, for your key relationships, or your workplace team, please reach out to start a conversation. If you would like to explore the 125 values we use here at the Values Hub, download the Values Map and be sure to check out our values definitions page.
