I went to a retreat recently where one of the major themes was connecting with one’s core principles (our values translated into actions) by which we live our lives. As management guru Bill George so aptly says: Principles “are like navigational instruments sailors use to get their bearings at sea, as they fix their direction of travels. “
In our 24/7 hectic,busy, often competitive lives, it is easy to forget about the values and principles we want to guide our lives. It may also be tempting/easier to compartmentalize our lives, being one way in our professional lives and another in our personal lives.
Our core principles can help keep us stay on an evenkeel. When the voices inside our head kick up and attempt to pull us off course- saying “but he is doing this, she is doing that”, remembering and connecting with these principles helps us to stay on course, move forward and lead a life that is integrated and purposeful.
If you can find some quiet time over the holidays, I invite you to pause, take a few breaths, let go of all the inside and outside noise and ask yourself:
· What are the things that matter most in my life (values)?
· How do I want to put them in action (principles)?
· What difference might this make in my life?
And then, because it is Thanksgiving, sending yourself some gratitude for taking the time to reflect and connect with your inner wisdom.
Happy Thanksgiving!