9 Values. 4 Words.

Values describe how we want to interact with the world around us. While they are not necessarily top of mind during every day-to-day action, they do guide behaviour. My core values are closely tied to my personal leadership motto, "Live Full. Stay Hungry.", which serves to encapsulate the spirit of my nine personal values in five words.

I would like to quickly acknowledge that having a motto might sound somewhat exclusive, elitest or privileged which is not my intent. Instead, my motto "Live Full and Stay Hungry" intends to be quick touchpoint. A simple phrase to represents a complex matrix. Although I harbour some self-consciousness about having a leadership motto, I won't apologize for its presence, as it genuinely reflects the intricate interplay of these values.

"Live Full" represents the past and the present. It reminds me to be fully present in, and grateful for, each experience. It is a reminder to maintain a positive outlook, even when facing challenges, and to find balance in my life. It pushes me to prioritize my family, my health, and my personal goals. It encourages me to act with integrity, accountability, and dependability toward others. It represents my aspiration to leave a lasting, positive imprint. To ensure that “I tried to leave my father’s vineyard better than I found it.” (Grant MacEwan).

On the other hand, "Stay Hungry" propels me into the future. It symbolizes a relentless pursuit of excellence and the determination to confront complacency. It embodies the idea of putting forth an elite effort. To embrace discomfort as a sacrifice for a future goal. It is a commitment to continuous learning, and a readiness to embrace new challenges. "Stay Hungry" promotes a growth mindset, where I am hungry for failure because failures are stepping stones to success.

At the end of this post, I will list my values for what its worth. Although a list seems too linear and rigid to reflect in their interconnectivity. Values are like a well-woven tapestry, each one complementing and reinforcing the others. Values are a dance not a directive. They create a holistic framework that empowers me to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.

However, like any other priority, values require deliberate effort to stay on track. I find it helpful to periodically reflect on my values and assess whether they are still in alignment. Are my habits and behaviours a reflection of these principles? Are they still accurate representations of who I aspire to be? This ongoing process of self-reflection helps me recalibrate my priorities, ensuring that I remain true to my values.

Personal Values:

• Positivity

• Effort

• Openness

• Accountability

• Dependability

• Flexibility

• Thrill & Risk

• Growth Mindset