Why Values Matter More Than Intentions

One of the most grounding truths I've ever learned is this:
We judge ourselves by our intentions, but the world judges us by our actions.

You may intend to be kind, reliable, disciplined, or courageous. But it’s what you repeatedly do that tells people who you are. That’s why values matter—not the kind you frame on a wall, but the kind you actively live.

Why We Avoid Talking About Values

We all have values. We all know what they are. Yet most of us rarely speak about them openly. Why?

1. Values expose our imperfections.
Talking about values shines a light on the fact that we don’t always live up to them. That can feel uncomfortable—even vulnerable. But that discomfort is also where real growth begins.

2. Values force alignment.
When a team or individual defines their values clearly, misalignment becomes obvious. Maybe someone’s actions contradict what the group stands for. Maybe you realize your own choices haven’t matched what you claim to believe.
These moments can feel tough, but they’re necessary. You can’t fix what you won’t acknowledge.

Rule #29: Publicly Declare the Values You Intend to Live By

Your values become your compass only when you choose them intentionally—and commit to living them consistently.
Not privately. Not vaguely.
Publicly and purposefully.

Over the years, I’ve refined the five values that guide my decisions, my behavior, and the environments I try to create around me. These aren’t universal—but they might offer a helpful starting point as you define your own.

My Five Core Values

Integrity — The power of honesty
Do what’s right, especially when it’s difficult or inconvenient.

Excellence — The power of quality
Don’t settle. Raise your standards. Improve your craft.

Teamwork — The power of working together
Great things aren’t built alone. Collaboration wins.

Commitment — The power of responsibility
Show up. Follow through. Be someone others can rely on.

Courage — The power of risk-taking
Take the chance. Speak the truth. Step forward even when it scares you.

What Life Looks Like When You Live by Your Values

Imagine a group—or even just one person—who fully embraces these values:

• They consistently choose the right thing over the easy thing.

• They keep raising the bar, refusing to settle for mediocre effort.

• They celebrate collective success, not individual credit.

• They follow through on their promises, even when it’s inconvenient.

• They take risks that enable growth—for themselves and the people around them.

Values aren’t slogans. They’re behaviors.
They’re a mirror we hold up to ourselves daily.
They are the foundation of trust, leadership, and long-term success.

ACTION ITEM #29: Build Your Personal Value System

Write down the values you want to be known for.
Put them somewhere you’ll see them every day.
At the end of each day, reflect:
Did my actions match my values today?
Commit to better alignment tomorrow.

Your values shape your actions.
Your actions shape your identity.
Your identity shapes your entire life.