Core Values
Welcome aboard! As we embark on the journey of a life without definitive expectations, I can't help but echo Captain Jim's welcome to the "Good Ship Lollipop." It’s not just any voyage—it’s an adventure in living mindfully and authentically.
Shakespeare and Self-Truth: Ahoy! Let's dive into a bit of Shakespeare, starting with the well-known play Hamlet. You might recall the line, "To thine own self be true," a sage piece of advice from Polonius to his son Laertes. This phrase isn't just old English—it's a call to introspection and honesty with oneself.
The Meaning of Values: What does it mean to be true to oneself? It means aligning your actions with your values. But what are values, really? They are the principles and beliefs that guide us, the moral compass that directs our behaviors and decisions. Values are deeply personal yet universally essential—they are the framework within which we construct our lives.
Facing the Mirror: However, it's not always smooth sailing. There are times when our behaviors drift away from our values, leading to feelings of disconnection. This misalignment can cause significant turmoil in our lives, making us feel like we are not living up to the type of person we aspire to be.
The Power of Core Values: It's crucial to define your core values—those non-negotiable principles that you hold dear. These values are the anchors that keep your life’s ship steady in turbulent waters. Living in accordance with these values can shape how others perceive you—are you seen as trustworthy, loyal, dependable, compassionate, and kind?
The Challenge of Authentic Living: Living authentically means more than just understanding your values; it involves actively embodying them in all aspects of life. It's about being mindful of how your actions impact others and ensuring that your behavior consistently reflects your core values.
Modeling Values Through Action: In today’s hyper-connected world, it's easy to fall into the trap of talking a big game without walking the walk. However, true integrity lies in congruence between words and actions. Are we practicing what we preach, or are we merely spouting ideals we fail to live by?
Embracing the Struggle with Values: It's okay to acknowledge that sometimes we fail to live up to our ideals. What's important is recognizing these moments and striving to realign our actions with our values. This continuous process of self-reflection and adjustment is what shapes a genuinely lived life.
Looking Ahead: As we wrap up today’s thoughts, I challenge you—just as Jim and Mike do—to take a moment and reflect on how your actions today aligned with your values. Did you live a day you'd be proud to showcase? Or are there adjustments you need to make? Remember, every day is a new chance to steer your life in the direction of your true self.
So, until our next encounter, remember to do a kindness for yourself and others. Forgive, reflect, and adjust. Namaste.
