THE VALUE OF VALUES

 

 

“When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.”

Roy E. Disney

1893-1971

Businessman

 

 

In his book, Winners Never Cheat, author Jon M. Huntsman makes a great statement about values when he says: “The principles we learned as children were simple and fair. They remain simple and fair. With moral compasses programmed in the sandboxes of long ago, we can navigate career courses with values that guarantee successful lives, a path that is good for one’s mental and moral well-being, not to mention long-term material success, if we but check those compasses regularly.”

People of character learn to understand that values, those beliefs that rule our life, are not mysteries or ideas hidden from sight; they are the same truths we know throughout our life. Do not cheat, lie, make fun of others, cut into line or take what is not yours. These are simple truths that, in the end, mark the difference between a success-minded person and a failure.

George H. Lorimar, the former editor of The Saturday Evening Post, said, “Back of every life, there are principles that have fashioned it.” We are all the results of our values. Those who have been faithful to the values they have learned throughout life are people who understand the meaning of success. They will not lie, cheat or steal because it is not who they are. People with solid ethical values do not need laws to tell them the difference between right and wrong – they know it in their being.

There is great peace and fulfillment to the one who is loyal to their values. Russian author Ayn Rand said, “Happiness is that state of consciousness which proceeds from the achievement of one’s values.” When we follow the values we know are right, we are most honest with ourselves, and therefore, we feel that sense of peace that can only come when we have been faithful to what we know is right.

People of character do not have to compromise their values to achieve their dream. In his book, Huntsman went on to state: “Cutting ethical corners is the antithesis of the American Dream. Each dreamer is provided with an opportunity to participate on a playing field made level by honor, hard work, and integrity.” Be loyal to your values, and they will be faithful to you.

You can learn more about Personal Development from the author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey. To get his books, training material, or book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   

© 2021 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this material may be reprinted or published without the written permission of the author.