What Do You Value

Roy Disney said,

“when your values are clear, making decisions becomes easier.”

I’ve always loved this quote. It’s really quite powerful with a lot of impact. It’s applicable to ministry, business, families, and individuals. How you govern your life, how you make your decisions is based on what you place value on. That’s a true statement whether you have established and published values or if your values remain unstated.  But how do you find or establish your values in such a way that it affects your decisions in an obvious way?

First, figure out what you do value. This is a relatively easy thing to do. Want to know what you value, see what gets your time, resources, and attention. I’ll admit that this works better on an individual level but it’s true of businesses and ministries as well. I’ll be the first to admit though, you may find something you value with your life that you don’t with your heart. That’s another process for another time but if you find that to be true and you’re wanting to make some changes, reach out to me and I’ll send you some resources that have helped me in that. 

The best organizations and ministries have turned their values into concise statements and then publicized these statements. This serves as both accountability from those on the outside as well as reminders of the “why” for those within. I know a few families that have done the same and have their values framed next to a family photo. You may be asking how does this help me with my decisions? Well, simply put, if it doesn’t fit into what you value you don’t do it. I understand it’s easier for some people to say no to things than it is for others but when we make our decisions based on the declared values we have for our lives and organizations making the decisions that guide them begin to come easier. It’s not something that happens overnight. It will take some discipline, some patience, and a lot of grace for yourself but once this clicks, you’ll understand exactly what Roy was talking about.

It’s a journey worth being on and then revisiting every now and then to make sure your values still ring true.  I’ve journeyed with others on this process for establishing their publicized values before so if I can be a guide for you please don’t hesitate to reach out.  I hope the decisions you have before you start coming easier and easier as you view them through the lens of what you value.  Blessings!

Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash