Life Skill: Statement of Core Values

by A. Salces Cajes, PhD

Your statement of core values naturally flows from the credo. Values are the bases by which you distinguish the right from wrong action. The core values are your “non-negotiables” regardless of the circumstance, time or place. As such, values can be understood as the ethical foundations of human actions, intentions and decisions.

One way of determining your core values is by listing down the major actions or decisions you have made in your life. Review the list and then identify the reasons why you choose such actions or decisions. These reasons are manifestations of your values, i.e., why you do the things you do.

Core values can help students in deciding the kind of future that they will create, the profession that they would like to pursue, or the organization that they would like to work for after graduation. For professionals, core values are determinants in choosing your lifestyle, workstyle, advocacy or friends.

Inventory of Core Values. Come up with a list of three to seven core values or your “non-negotiables”. Describe these core values so that they are clear to you and for other people. Make sure that these values are consistent with your credo. Examples of core values are the following:

· Catholic values: Sanctity of life; Fidelity in relationship

· Mulan (the Movie): Honor; Duty

· Knights (of King Arthur): Courage; Justice

· Leadership: Integrity; Empathy

· Islamic values: Honesty; Kindness

· Filipino values: Hospitality; Loyalty.

 Describe the Core Values.  By describing the core values, you articulate the meaning and implication of these values to yourself and to other people. Examples of descriptions of core value are the following:

·  Jose Rizal, Patriotism: "I wish to show those who deny us Patriotism that we know how to die for our country and convictions."

·  San Miguel Corporation, Sustainable Development: “We advocate sustainable development - We believe in using only what we need and integrating sustainability practices into our operations. Water stewardship, energy optimization and reducing waste are our key environmental priorities.”

·  Author, Obedience or Loyalty: “I will obey and follow the right management instructions to the best of my abilities. I will refuse and oppose instructions that my conscience could not accept.”