This is the most important document you’ll create this month.
A personal or family values code. Not the values you wish you had. The values you’re actually living by.
Here’s why this matters: You can’t change what you haven’t named.
If you’re not explicit about your values, you’ll default to whatever’s easiest in the moment. Whatever serves you. Whatever requires the least sacrifice.
But if you’ve written your values down and you’ve shown them to people who matter to you, something shifts. You become accountable. You see the gaps. You change.
Here’s how to create your values code.
Step 1: Identify Your Core Values
Don’t think about what you should value. Think about what you actually value.
Look at the people you admire. What do they embody? What do they stand for?
Look at the moments you’re most proud of. What values were you living then?
Look at the moments you’re ashamed of. What values were you compromising?
List 5-7 core values. Be honest. These are your actual values, not your aspirational values.
Step 2: Define Each Value
For each value, write what it actually means to you.
Honesty: I tell the truth even when it’s uncomfortable. I don’t hide things. I admit mistakes.
Integrity: My private self matches my public self. I do what I say. I keep commitments.
Family: I prioritise time with the people I love. I show up for them. I invest in these relationships.
Be specific. Be real. This is for you and the people who matter to you, not for anyone else.
Step 3: Share It and Invite Accountability
The magic happens when you share this with people. Tell your team. Your family. Your trusted friends.
Say: These are the values I’m trying to live by. I’m not perfect. I’m going to fail sometimes. But I want to be accountable to these. Can you call me when you see me compromising them?
That vulnerability creates extraordinary culture. Because now everyone knows what you’re trying to stand for. And everyone has permission to hold you accountable.
Download the Values Code Template (free). Create yours this week.