Values Institute

It turns out that writing about your values is one of the most effective psychological interventions ever studied. In the short term, writing about personal values makes people feel more powerful, in control, proud, and strong. It also makes them feel more loving, connected, and empathetic toward others. It increases pain tolerance, enhances self-control, and reduces unhelpful rumination after a stressful experience. PROFESSOR KELLY MCGONIGAL, STANFORD

Much has been written about “stress management” techniques that are primarily behavioral in nature — such as getting adequate sleep, regular exercise, and mental downtime; taking vacation; doing controlled breathing; practicing yoga or mindfulness meditation; or getting acupuncture treatments. But relatively little has been written recently on the benefits of self-disciplined articulation of a philosophical worldview and core values that help us weather the storms and devastations that inevitably rock our lives and careers. DAVID BRENDEL, MD, PHD

For those looking to create a workplace culture of employee empowerment and engagement, companies must first reexamine their cultures to ensure they are attracting and retaining the type of talent that will drive business success. Leaders should honestly reflect on the extent to which they’re listening to employees, driving cultural values themselves, and recognizing employee performance — all of which are critical to empowering a diverse workforce. Natalie Baumgartner, Harvard Business Review

Employees often want to work at organizations whose core values align with their own. “Employers,” Forbes says, “should trade 90 percent talent for just 10 percent character.” When companies clearly outline their core values, it makes it easier to attract like-minded people who fit in with the company culture; this leads to greater productivity. A company that consistently adheres to its core values also demonstrates integrity, something that can encourage employees to stay even when things get tough. Lesley University

Human values drive action. Respecting each other's values leads to understanding.

Our mission to to support individuals and groups in achieving values alignment. This naturally leads to values diversity and inclusion, which is the antidote to ambiguity.

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