Leading with Values: Charting a New Course in Decision Making

Dear Executives, Coaches, and Consultants,

In the fast-paced business world, pursuing net new revenue has long been the guiding star for many leaders. 

We’ve witnessed the resounding call of “Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead!” echoing through the corridors of corporate strategy. 

Modern managers declare, “Damn the values, full speed ahead!” 

Yet, it’s becoming increasingly evident that this approach comes at a cost – strained workplace cultures, employee disengagement, and ethical dilemmas that can erode the foundation of an organization’s success.

So, why do business leaders refrain from leading with their core human values? 

The pressure to deliver short-term results, the allure of immediate gains, and the competitive environment can often overshadow the importance of emotional intelligence and ethical decision-making. 

However, the tide is turning, and a new era of leadership is beckoning.

Embracing Values-Driven Leadership: A Path Forward

To all visionary leaders, it’s time to recalibrate your compass and steer your organizations towards a more enlightened path.

1. Reflection and Self-Awareness: 

Begin with introspection. Take a moment to identify your core values and understand how they align with your leadership style. Reflect on past decisions and their positive and negative outcomes to gain insights into your decision-making patterns.

2. Empathy Exercises: 

Engage in empathy-building exercises. Walk in your employees’ shoes, actively listen to their perspectives, and seek to understand their challenges. This practice fosters a more profound connection, enhances team morale, and paves the way for more empathetic decision-making.

3. Compassionate Communication: 

Prioritize open and transparent communication. When communicating decisions, emphasize the ‘why’ behind them, and address concerns with empathy. Compassionate communication builds trust and reinforces your commitment to shared values.

4. Courageous Conversations: 

Challenge the status quo by encouraging open dialogues on ethical dilemmas. Create a safe space for your team to voice concerns and collectively brainstorm solutions that align with your organization’s values.

5. Continuous Learning: 

Commit to ongoing learning and development in emotional intelligence and values-based leadership. Attend workshops, read relevant literature, and engage with mentors who can guide you on this transformative journey.

6. Decision-Making Framework: 

Create a decision-making framework that integrates both financial metrics and value considerations. When faced with a critical choice, evaluate how it aligns with your values and its potential impact on your team and stakeholders.

In the age of rapid change and heightened awareness, the call for values-driven leadership is more resonant than ever. 

It’s time to rediscover the essence of leadership, bridging the gap between net new revenue achievements and the profound impact of business decisions driven by positive human values.

Remember, in the words of Rear Admiral Farragut, “Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead” can hold new meaning when infused with the guiding light of values that shape a better tomorrow.

Let’s embark on this transformative journey and chart a new course toward a brighter future.

Every month we host a 4-day Sprint, we called “Story to Strategy” using our Life Journey Map Navigator.”

The process employs a narrative approach to connecting with the source of your values (nature or nurture), understanding your internal and external customers, and accomplishing more by story listening than storytelling.